As Rwanda marked 31 years since its liberation, President Paul Kagame sat down for a special conversation with journalists, a moment not just of celebration, but also of deep national reflection on the country’s journey and its strategic future.
During the live conversation, Jesse Maxella, a journalist from Royal FM, asked a thought provoking question: Rwanda is often described as having an “unapologetically strategic” leadership, so what is the next bold move the country can take to cement its place as a truly global player?
President Kagame responded by emphasizing that Rwanda’s strength lies not in chasing something entirely new, but in building on what already exists. A strong foundation of vision, discipline, and resilience that has guided the country since its liberation in 1994.
“All the elements are there; there is nothing entirely new to invent,” Kagame stated. “We are simply creating a vision by giving value to time. The world we operate in is in constant need of people who can adapt from time to time.”
As Rwandans across the country celebrated three decades of progress and transformation, Kagame stressed that the essence of liberation is not only found in historical milestones, but also in the ongoing ability to think critically, act strategically, and never lose momentum.
“When it comes to strategic thinking, you want continuity, to be better than you were yesterday,” he said.
He reminded the audience that success should not lead to complacency. Instead, it must energize further action and inspire new ambition.
“You don’t need to get drunk on success or achievement. Rather, that success should inspire you and energize you to keep going,” he said. “Don’t fall below the speed or the quality of what you’ve already achieved. That should be the foundation for assembling the things moving forward.”
This message comes at a significant time for Rwanda, as the country reflects on 31 years of liberation, a journey that turned tragedy into hope, and despair into purpose. Today, the conversation is no longer about survival, but about sustained excellence, regional leadership, and global relevance.
The President’s dialogue with the press served as a reminder that liberation is more than a date on the calendar, it is a living idea, renewed daily through hard choices, unity, and unwavering focus on the future.
