Kigali, 6 December 2013
President Kagame today presided over the 11th National Dialogue Council, Umushyikirano at Parliament. Before commencing the proceedings of this annual event, President Kagame, First Lady Jeannette Kagame, Government leaders and participants observed a minute of silence to mourn President Nelson Mandela who passed away last night after a long illness.
In his address, President Kagame told participants who included local and central government leaders, diplomats and the civil society that the value of this home grown initiative called Umushikirano to national development is undeniable. He asked the participants to make Agaciro central to the two-day discussions:
“Umushyikirano is about the role of every Rwandan in building his or her nation. It is about how far we have come, where we are today and our future. Our differences should enrich our debate and be part of charting a future that benefits all. These discussions are about evaluating our progress towards solving our challenges.”
President Kagame pointed out that in pursuit of development and a better future; Rwandans cannot work in isolation but have to cooperate with their neighbours for sustainable development.
“Building our nation also means cooperation with our region and with the world because Agaciro should traverse boundaries. I ask you to contribute constructive ideas during these discussions which we can build on as we forge ahead on our journey to a better future.”
During the interactive session where Rwandans and the youth in particular participated through call-ins, teleconferencing and social media, a number of constructive ideas and issues were discussed.
The National Dialogue Council (NDC), established in 2003 by the constitution, is a home grown annual event chaired by H.E. the President of the Republic of Rwanda. It brings together representatives of local councils and civil society to debate issues relating to the state of the nation, the state of local government and national unity. During the two days, participants will discuss ways of accelerating economic development and preserving the Rwandan spirit through Nd’umunyarwanda campaign. The theme for 11th National Dialogue Council is “The Rwandan Spirit: Foundation for Sustainable Development”.