President Kagame Says National Development Cannot Be Achieved Without Youth Self-Development
President Paul Kagame has emphasized that national development cannot be achieved unless young people, the driving force of Rwanda, first invest in building themselves and upholding strong values that prepare them to lead the country into the future.
He made these remarks on Monday evening, December 29, 2025, during the annual end-of-year ceremony held to extend New Year wishes to Rwandans and friends of Rwanda. The event brought together people from different sectors, including First Lady Jeannette Kagame, senior government officials, and a large number of young people.
In his address, President Kagame reminded the youth that they make up the majority of Rwanda’s population and therefore carry a significant responsibility in shaping the country’s future. However, he stressed that their numerical strength alone is not enough unless it is supported by personal growth and discipline.
“You young people here represent the majority of Rwanda’s population. The fact that over 75 percent of our citizens are slightly over 30 years old means we have an enormous source of strength,” he said.
The Head of State explained that this strength must not be wasted but should instead be harnessed through meaningful work and guided by national values that contribute to both individual progress and national development.
“We must use this energy based on our values and in productive work that helps you build yourselves while also building your country,” he added.
President Kagame underlined that self-development is a prerequisite for building a strong and prosperous nation, noting that young people cannot effectively contribute to Rwanda’s growth if they are not personally prepared and empowered.
“You cannot build Rwanda without first building yourselves. That is what I ask of you, and that is what I wish for you,” he emphasized.
Rwanda’s youth continue to be viewed as a major national asset, particularly because more than 75 percent of the population is under the age of 35. This demographic reality positions young people at the center of the country’s economic growth, leadership, technological advancement, and overall development.
As President Kagame highlighted, today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. For this reason, it is essential to instill in them strong values, a deep sense of patriotism, and a commitment to actively participate in both personal development and the sustainable development of the nation.
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