President Paul Kagame on Tuesday, February 8, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of two newly appointed cabinet ministers. The event, that took place at parliament, saw Minister of Infrastructure, Ernest Nsabimana and the State Minister in the same ministry, Patricie Uwase take oath of office. Addressing the newly appointed officials and other senior government officials, Kagame emphasized the need for commitment towards serving Rwandans. Kagame pointed out that progress reports are showing that there is a gap and extra effort and concrete action is required to achieve the country’s development ambitions. Kagame cautioned the leaders against amediocrity, saying that the consequencesof any such culture is detremental to the welfare of Rwandans. “There is a weight that such carelessness carries, and in most cases can’t be defended by any type of excused,” Kagame said. The President demanded a new work ethic from the Cabinet members,, saying that while it mistakes can be made, it should not be perceived as normal. “We can’t risk to make mistakes in certain situations including those that could lead to loss of lives…leave alone property.” President Kagame also singled out several other issues that should not be tolerated from leaders, including prioritising individual gains at the expense of public good. He raised the issue of embezzlement of resources aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable families, saying that such can not be tolerated. Prior to the appointment, Nsabimana served as the Director General of the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), while Uwase was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure. The new infrastructure minister replaces Claver Gatete, who is set to serve as Rwanda’s permanent representative to the United Nations.
