Rubavu: President Kagame on Friday met with over 100 thousand residents of Rubavu and Nyabihu districts on the last day of his three-day tour of the Northern and Western Provinces.
Addressing the residents, President Kagame urged them to use the opportunities presented by the districts’ strategic location in developing themselves.
“You are fortunate to be located at the border with our neighbour, the Democratic Republic of Congo. With good cooperation, both countries can work together for the prosperity of both our nations. But it does not start with our neighbours, it begins with improving our own market here at home. Once we are able to provide and serve our own market, it will be the foundation for trading with our partners. Being at the border is an opportunity to work together and trade with each other. You should not waste the opportunity this location provides” President Kagame said.
President Kagame further asked the private sector not to be complacent with the little progress they have made, rather work hard to achieve more.
“Private sector should not be satisfied with doing the minimum. Serving a small number of people for a high price just because you make a profit is not enough. You should be aiming to grow your business and reach a maximum number of people. We want you to take opportunities offered on the local and regional market. Our role will be to work to facilitate you, easing trade with other countries and maintaining freedom of movement to our country. What can stand in the way of us moving forward? The only obstacle is us, it is up to us to take these opportunities” President Kagame added.
President Kagame also reiterated that none will be allowed to destabilise the country’s security.
“No one can destabilize us and steer us in the wrong direction. We are building our country, living in unity and we know where we come from and where we are going. Let us be focused, do everything we can, together, to move our country forward and continue to be an example that shows that transformation is possible” President Kagame said.
Over the last three days, the Head of State has been meeting with residents, listening to their queries, and interacted with opinion leaders from across the two provinces.
The visit is part of the President’s citizen outreach program where he meets residents countrywide to discuss and find solutions to developmental challenges while also holding leaders accountable. (End)