President Kagame today closed the 15th National Leadership Retreat, known as Umwiherero.

The four-day leadership retreat took place at the Rwanda Defence Combat Training Centre in Gabiro. Attended also by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, the retreat brought together about 300 senior officials from Central and Local Government, parastatals and the private sector.

Speaking at the closing of the retreat, President Kagame pointed out that the key to transformation is harnessing the strength of culture.

“Among the strengths of those who have attained development are humility and hard work. Professionalism should be a habit among leaders if we want to get the results we want. The effort must be collective. There should be consequences for those who try to discourage these efforts,” President Kagame said.

The President called on new and young public servants to resist attempts meant to discourage them or slow them down, towards doing what they know is right for their country.

Umwiherero 2018 discussions focused on urbanization and competitiveness, improved quality of education and health services, the fight against corruption and foreign policy.

At this year’s retreat, Rwandan leaders devised ways to help accelerate the implementation of the remainder of 2020 and the first four years of Vision 2050.

Umwiherero is an annual gathering where Rwandan leaders reflect on the country’s progress, and strategize on accelerating delivery of national priorities.

Following the closing of Umwiherero 2018, President Kagame presided over the official launch of City Blue EPIC Hotel in Nyagatare District.