On January 9, 2025, President Paul Kagame held a press conference in Kigali, addressing pressing regional and continental challenges with a firm focus on accountability and self-reliance.
The President’s remarks underscored the urgency of finding homegrown solutions to Africa’s persistent issues, especially regarding the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the broader responsibility of African leadership.
Dialogue as the Pathway to Peace
President Kagame emphasized the critical importance of direct negotiations between the DRC government and the M23 rebel group to resolve ongoing tensions in eastern Congo. He stated, “Solutions won’t come from the outside. The key lies within-through an internal political process, through dialogue.”
Additionally, he highlighted the destabilizing presence of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia with ties to the 1994 Genocide perpetrators. Kagame warned of the dangers of neglecting this issue, saying, “The FDLR question has lingered for too long. It’s a root cause of instability in the region, and ignoring it only perpetuates the cycle of violence.”
A Candid Critique of African Leadership
Shifting focus to the broader challenges facing Africa, President Kagame offered a candid assessment of leadership on the continent. He remarked, “The problem is us,” stressing that many of Africa’s struggles stem from within. His statement served as both a critique and a call to action for African leaders to own their responsibilities and embrace solutions that prioritize accountability.
President Kagame urged his peers to take a hands-on approach in addressing systemic weaknesses, saying, “It starts with looking in the mirror. If we don’t own our problems, no one else will solve them for us.”
Reactions from Rwandans and the Media
The press conference quickly sparked reactions across traditional and social media. Many Rwandans lauded the President’s emphasis on dialogue and accountability, praising his direct and pragmatic approach. On platforms like Twitter and Instagram, supporters highlighted his focus on regional stability and his frank critique of leadership shortcomings.
However, some citizens raised concerns about domestic priorities, particularly youth unemployment and economic inequality. “While the President’s focus on regional peace is commendable, we must also address pressing domestic issues,” one commenter noted on Twitter.
Local outlets such including The New Times Rwanda provided in-depth coverage of the event, highlighting Kagame’s frank critique of African leadership and his call for solutions rooted in self-reliance.
The press conference was not just a routine briefing but a stark reminder of Africa’s potential and the need for transformative leadership. Kagame’s forthright remarks serve as a challenge to African leaders to rise above political inertia and take charge of their nations’ destinies.
