President Kagame emphasizes self-reliance and the role of youth in sustaining Rwanda's growth.
In a televised end-of-year message, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed gratitude to citizens for their trust and support throughout the year. He highlighted the strong economic performance of Rwanda in 2025, stating that sustaining and accelerating this growth in the coming year will require greater self-reliance and productive use of national resources.
“Our economy performed well. The task ahead is to sustain and raise this growth, and use our resources productively,” Kagame remarked. He emphasized the need for new resolutions to keep the country focused and ambitious, urging Rwandans not to rely on external financing for their development and wellbeing.
Kagame particularly underscored the importance of the youth, describing them as the country’s most valuable asset. “It is your task, as young Rwandans, to sustain what we have built and take it further. I hope you have prepared for that duty including when it may require sacrifices from us individually and collectively,” he stated.
The President noted that Rwanda has a history of turning challenges into opportunities and must continue to build on that resilience while remembering its roots. He highlighted key milestones of 2025 that elevated Rwanda’s international profile, including the inaugural International Security Conference on Africa and the launch of an annual event focused on nuclear power innovation for Africa.
“This reaffirms that Rwandans and Africans generally have the power to define where, what we stand for, and where we are going,” Kagame said, reflecting on the significance of hosting the UCI Road World Cycling Championships, which marked a historic moment as the event came to Africa for the first time in its century-long history.
“Bringing this competition and its elite athletes to Kigali’s streets was a source of immense pride for our nation,” he added. Kagame also acknowledged the potential of Rwandan football, citing FIFA’s support in strengthening the sport and the country’s plans to host the FIFA Series next year.
This December, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed the Washington Accords, mediated by US President Donald Trump. These agreements aim to foster peace and economic prosperity in the region, particularly addressing the threat posed by the FDLR militia.
“I thank the United States and Qatar, alongside African institutions, for supporting this peace process,” Kagame stated, emphasizing Rwanda’s commitment to implementing the agreement and addressing the root causes of conflict in eastern DR Congo.
As the year concludes, Kagame urged citizens to remain vigilant and committed to national goals, reminding them that everyone has a role in shaping the country’s future. “The future we deserve is within reach; we must stay the course, remain positive, and continue aiming higher,” he concluded, wishing Rwandans and friends of Rwanda a joyful and prosperous New Year 2026.
Key Points
- Kagame thanks Rwandans for their trust and support.
- Emphasizes the need for self-reliance and productive use of resources.
- Highlights the role of youth in sustaining national growth.
- Notes key milestones of 2025, including international events.
- Discusses the Washington Accords and their significance for peace.
