In an inaugural address filled with both reflection and forward-looking aspirations, President Paul Kagame today took the oath of office at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.
The ceremony was attended by more than two dozen Presidents and Heads of State from across the world, marking a significant moment in Rwanda’s political history.
While expressing gratitude to the Rwandan people for entrusting him with another term, President Kagame did not shy away from addressing the ongoing crises in the region, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
His speech placed a spotlight on the need for lasting peace in eastern DRC, a region plagued by conflict and instability.
“Peace in our region is a priority for Rwanda, yet it has been lacking, particularly in eastern DRC,” President Kagame asserted.
He emphasized that peace cannot be imposed from the outside, regardless of how powerful the intervening forces might be.
“Peace cannot be delivered by anyone from anywhere, no matter how powerful if the party most directly concerned does not do what is needed,” he stated, directing his remarks towards the need for genuine and effective action from all involved parties.
Acknowledging the efforts of regional leaders like President João Lourenço of Angola and President William Ruto of Kenya, Kagame stressed that their sincere mediation efforts would only bear fruit if the necessary actions were taken by those directly involved.
His comments pointed to the reality that peace is not a favor to be granted, but an obligation that all must uphold for the common good.
The President’s address also touched on broader themes of justice, human rights, and the importance of mutual respect among nations.
He highlighted that real peace cannot exist where rights are violated and where citizenship is denied arbitrarily. “There has to be a meeting in the middle. There has to be a compromise,” he said, underscoring the need for dialogue and reconciliation.
Kagame’s speech further reflected on Rwanda’s journey over the past three decades, a period marked by profound transformation from the aftermath of the 1994 genocide.
He celebrated the unity and resilience of the Rwandan people, which have been central to the country’s progress. “Our tragic past ignited a fire in each one of us: a fire of hope, resilience, and justice. This is who we have become as Rwandans,” he said.
As Rwanda looks to the future, President Kagame urged the global community to reflect on the kind of world they want their children to inherit.
He called for respect for each nation’s unique context and governance systems, rejecting external impositions and the creation of false narratives.
Closing his address, Kagame reiterated his commitment to the continued progress of Rwanda, stating, “Our focus now returns to the future.
For the last thirty years, our country has been a good work-in-progress. This new mandate means the beginning of even more hard work.”
As President Kagame embarks on his new term, his words signal Rwanda’s readiness to confront regional challenges head-on, with a firm belief in the principles of justice, unity, and self-reliance.
