First Lady Jeannette Kagame, on Friday, December 1, urged leaders to endeavour that their different capabilities are beneficial to society, noting that “if you can, you must.” She made the remarks during the Leaders Breakfast Fellowship that brought together different leaders in government, private sector, and civil society to reflect on their service guided by godly values. It is organised by the Rwanda Leaders Fellowship. ALSO READ: First Lady calls on men to have an equal share in parenting Mrs Kagame told the attendees that they are all united by faith, hope, and love for Rwanda and that the shared connection transcends the differences in origins, experiences, and life facts. “I believe that we all share one truth, those that can, must. Indeed, those favoured with platforms to effect change must do so. The social welfare and wellness of others is our collective responsibility.” To emphasize her message, she referred to the Bible verse; Proverbs 3:27-28 “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. Do not say to your neighbour, ‘Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it’—when you have it with you.” She also appealed to spiritual leaders to remain the voice of godliness and virtue in the country’s efforts for progress and transformation, and reminding leaders in all fields to choose service over power. As the guest preacher, Pastor Rick Warren –renowned American evangelist and founder of Saddleback Church –referred to the story of Moses in the Bible and encouraged the leaders to surrender whatever they have as ability to God to be used at full potential in their respective fields. He mentioned that their identity, income, or influence “can only be made alive” and impactful once surrendered to God. Warren also took time to commend President Paul Kagame’s friendship over the past two decades, when he was on the Presidential Advisory Council, and allowing him to be a part of the country’s development journey. In addition, he presented his successor in ministry, Pastor Andy Wood, who will take over the legacy and leadership of his multiple works across countries. Wood also shared the word of God with the participants. The celebrated author of ‘The Purpose Driven Life’ book has been involved in several activities in Rwanda’s development in the past two decades through an initiative called Peace Plan. The acronym stands for ‘Promote reconciliation, equip servant leaders, Assist the poor, care for the sick, and Educate the next generation.’ The initiative has been involved in activities like HIV/Aids fight, community integration and poverty and hunger eradication, among other areas. Rwanda Leaders Fellowship was started in 1995 to pray for the leadership of Rwanda and for the guidance of godly values in their day-to-day decisions. It also hosts an annual event named National Prayer Breakfast that convenes leaders to celebrate the country’s achievements in the past year and reflect and pray over national goals in the year ahead.
