Good evening, and best wishes for a New Year 2019.
We have a lot to look forward to, but there is also hard work that needs to be done to bring our country to where we want it to be. We also give thanks for the good things that happened over the past year.
Africa became more united and Rwanda contributed to that process. Our economy continues to grow, anchored on the unity and solidarity of Rwandans. Governance and social cohesion also continues to get stronger.
In other areas, including sports, our athletes increasingly made their mark internationally, especially our cyclists.
Thanks to the steadfast unity and wisdom of Rwandans, our country remained strong and secure, and that will always be the case.
Our relationship with our African brothers is stronger today. But there are still challenges in our region. Some neighbours have tried to revive the threat posed by FDLR, RNC and other negative forces. This jeopardizes the otherwise good progress in East African integration, as well as regional security.
For one neighbor, we expect it. However, we are surprised by another neighbor, where the evidence we have, and which they must also have, shows clear complicity, despite public denials. This matter is being handled, and we continue talking with our neighbours in the spirit of African solidarity.
I call upon Rwandans to remain vigilant, while not allowing ourselves to be distracted.
This has been a good and productive year for Rwanda. But there are still people in our communities who need our support. Helping one another is among the highest values of our culture.
My family and I wish you and your loved ones a blessed and prosperous 2019. Continue to celebrate responsibly, and take good care of yourselves and each other.
God bless you