Rwandans living in the Diaspora say Umushyikirano has played a critical role over the past two decades in shaping national decision-making, improving public service delivery, and strengthening their connection to home, despite living thousands of kilometres away.

They say the national dialogue stands out for its seriousness and follow-through, offering a rare platform where leaders are held accountable for resolutions adopted—long after the discussions end.

According to the Minister of State for National Treasury in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera, more than 80 per cent of the 13 resolutions adopted during the 19th National Umushyikirano Council held in January 2024 have already been implemented.

This adds to a long record of resolutions carried out over the last 20 years as part of Rwanda’s post-genocide rebuilding journey.

The 20th edition of Umushyikirano will take place on February 5 and 6, marking the forum’s return after a one-year break.

Miles away, but still heard

Rashid Habinshuti, a Rwandan living in Belgium, has participated in Umushyikirano for several years and is set to take part in the 20th edition. He says the impact of the dialogue goes well beyond formal speeches.

During the 9th Umushyikirano, Habinshuti proposed a mechanism that would allow Rwandans working abroad to make voluntary pension contributions through embassies, enabling them to access savings upon returning home. The idea was later adopted as a resolution.

"I followed up and was told it is now being implemented. That was truly a voice being heard, and it was very encouraging,” he said.

Although he did not personally benefit from the scheme after venturing into real estate, Habinshuti says the experience reinforced his belief in Umushyikirano as a bridge between leaders and citizens.

"When ideas are presented directly, whether in person or virtually, they are often practical and lead to real solutions—either to problems raised or ideas suggested,” he said.

Josephine Murphy, a Rwandan living in Canada, has been involved in Rwanda’s social and economic development through her work with Shelter Them and consulting engagements with government institutions.

She said one of Umushyikirano’s most significant outcomes for the Diaspora has been the deliberate recognition of Rwandans abroad as development partners, rather than distant observers.

"From the early years, concerns raised during Umushyikirano helped shape and strengthen key systems, particularly around Diaspora investment,” she noted.

She cited improvements in investment frameworks, expanded digital platforms for service access, and the role of institutions such as the Rwanda Development Board as key enablers of stronger Diaspora engagement.

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Murphy added that policies such as dual nationality, investment facilitation, clarity on land access, and dedicated institutional entry points for Diaspora engagement were debated through Umushyikirano.

"These policies have made a meaningful difference, especially for those seeking to invest, return, or contribute skills, expertise, and capital to Rwanda’s development journey,” she said.

She also pointed to Umushyikirano’s strong culture of follow-through.

"Concerns raised are not just discussed; they are referred to relevant institutions, and progress is reviewed in subsequent dialogues. This accountability builds trust and reassures the Diaspora that their voices matter in national decision-making,” she said.

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Lavie Mutanganshuro, a Rwandan living in Kenya, described Umushyikirano as a practical homegrown solution that strengthens national belonging by giving citizens direct access to leadership.

"Several public services, especially national IDs and passport applications, are now accessible through Irembo and at embassies. That is one of the biggest impacts of passed resolutions,” he said.

While praising the forum’s impact, Mutanganshuro said future editions should engage more young people and remain focused on generating implementable ideas aligned with Vision 2050, noting that today’s youth will be tomorrow’s decision-makers.

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Eric Kabalisa, Executive Assistant at the Embassy of Rwanda in Japan, said the Rwandan community there now enjoys access to services similar to those available at home, particularly passport services.

"This has strengthened the sense of national belonging. In the past, bureaucracy often caused delays, but today concerns raised are truly heard and acted upon,” he said.

Kabalisa suggested that future Umushyikirano editions should also address emerging challenges such as online scamming, warning that Rwanda risks losing citizens who could otherwise contribute to national development.

Emile Mwepesi, Second Counsellor at the High Commission of Rwanda in New Delhi, India, highlighted the country’s digital infrastructure, which allows Umushyikirano and other national events to be followed in real time from abroad.

"The geographical distance between Rwanda and India is no longer a barrier. Policies and systems are in place to ensure effective service delivery through embassies,” he said, citing examples such as rapid visa processing through digital coordination with Kigali.

Mwepesi described Umushyikirano as one of the most democratic platforms, where citizens can question leaders directly and leaders are held accountable.

"The dialogue is not symbolic—it is practical. Leadership is clearly defined as service to the people. The world can learn from this culture,” he said.