President Paul Kagame has called on Rwanda’s young people to reject alcohol abuse and embrace discipline, warning that destructive habits could prevent them from achieving their ambitions and contributing to the country’s development.
Speaking during an interactive session with participants of the 16th cohort of Itorero Indangamirwa at the Gabiro Combat Training Centre, Kagame urged the youth to protect their health and remain focused on the opportunities ahead of them.
Itorero is a national civic education program grounded in Rwanda’s traditions of mentorship to the youth. It helps instill discipline, patriotism, and leadership development. It helps youth learn about the history of Rwanda, understand national transformation, government policies, challenges, and opportunities available to youth. It also teaches basic military training aimed at understanding how to protect and defend the nation; participants must be aged between 18 and 23.
The President expressed concern over rising alcohol consumption among young people, describing it as a growing threat to their future. He warned that alcohol addiction has already claimed many lives and cautioned that it could derail the aspirations of a new generation if left unchecked.
Kagame encouraged the participants to make responsible choices and avoid being influenced by peers into harmful behaviours, saying Rwanda needs healthy, productive and determined young citizens to help drive the country’s transformation.
He also stressed that discipline remains one of the most important values young people can develop. According to Kagame, discipline shapes decision-making, encourages respect for oneself and others, promotes the pursuit of knowledge and keeps people focused on meaningful goals.
The President said the training offered through Itorero Indangamirwa is designed to instill these values, equipping participants with the mindset and character needed to serve their communities and the nation.
He noted that knowledge alone is not enough without discipline, explaining that self-control and commitment enable individuals to apply what they learn effectively and avoid distractions that could undermine their progress.
Kagame concluded by urging participants to put into practice the lessons learned during the programme, saying discipline, integrity and a clear sense of purpose would enable them to realise both their personal ambitions and Rwanda’s long-term development goals.
