Implementation of the 13 resolutions adopted during the 19th National Umushyikirano Council held in January 2024 has surpassed 80 per cent, according to the Minister of State for National Treasury in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera. The update comes ahead of the 20th edition of Umushyikirano, scheduled to take place on February 5 and 6, marking the forum’s return after a one-year break. ALSO READ: Umushyikirano returns after one-year break Umushyikirano is a national dialogue forum established by the constitution, bringing together citizens, leaders, and members of the Rwandan diaspora to discuss issues related to national unity, governance, and development. Chaired by the head of state, the annual forum provides an opportunity to assess progress made over the past year, review decentralisation efforts, and identify policy priorities going forward. Speaking in an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) on February 3, Kabera said notable progress has been registered across multiple sectors Agriculture Kabera said progress has been recorded in agriculture, with cultivated land expanding as planned. “We have seen an increase in cultivated land alongside irrigation projects, including initiatives near the Akanyaru River and in districts such as Kirehe and Kayonza,” he said, adding that these efforts are complemented by improved post-harvest storage facilities. Improved management of local workshops (udukiriro) Regarding local workshops, commonly known as udukiriro, Kabera said improved management systems have been rolled out nationwide. “These measures have enabled those working in them to earn sustainable income. So far, more than 370,000 people have gained employment through these facilities, demonstrating their importance in job creation and skills development,” he said. Expansion of feeder roads He further noted progress in rural infrastructure, saying over 4,200 kilometres of feeder roads have been constructed or rehabilitated. ALSO READ: Progress of 10 key upcountry road construction projects “Maintenance works have improved road conditions, with passable roads now exceeding 58 per cent, and this program is still ongoing.” Diaspora investment Kabera said Rwandans living abroad have been mobilised to invest in various sectors of the economy. “As a result of continued engagement, diaspora investment has now exceeded $35 million, which reflects strong commitment from Rwandan communities abroad.” Access to clean water He also noted improvements in access to clean water, with 80 percent of Rwanda’s population now able to access safe drinking water through various initiatives. Financial sector reforms On financial sector reforms, Kabera said the Business Development Fund (BDF) has been merged with the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD). ALSO READ: BRD assumes BDF services as govt targets stronger development finance “BRD will improve service delivery and introduce new financial products, particularly targeting youth and women,” he said. Health sector achievements Kabera outlined different developments in the health sector, including the expansion of Kirehe Hospital and King Faisal Hospital, with further expansion plans underway. “Health centres across the country have also increased their capacity and are now offering 11 additional services.” “CT scan machines have been installed in eight hospitals, ambulances have been deployed nationwide, and training of specialists continues, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.” Mutuelle de Santé scheme has also been expanded, increasing the range of services covered and improving access to healthcare, Kabera added. ALSO READ: Cancer, kidney transplant services to be covered under Mutuelle de Santé TVET education Kabera said technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has recorded growing participation due to strong demand and employment opportunities. “Since the conclusion of Umushyikirano, 24 TVET schools have been completed and are operational, while 135 schools now offer vocational training under the program to ensure at least one vocational school per sector,” he said. Skills repatriation He added that support for Rwandan youth studying specialised skills abroad has continued, with 150 professionals so far returning to fill critical skills gaps. Sports development Kabera said efforts to nurture youth talent have intensified. “More than 5,000 youth have been trained in various sports, including 1,400 in football and over 800 in volleyball and basketball, supported by certified coaches,” he said, noting that Rwanda has also hosted international competitions, including cycling events under UCI standards, to boost professionalism and exposure. Governance Kabera said progress has been made in promoting unity, resilience, and good governance, particularly among young people. “Over one million youth have participated in Unity and Reconciliation programs, more than two million citizens engaged in Ndi Umunyarwanda civic dialogues, and 4,000 youth took part in programs focused on national values, leadership, and civic responsibility,” he said. Technology On digital transformation, Kabera said government service delivery has improved significantly through technology. “Today, Irembo provides 258 government services, significantly speeding up public service delivery,” he said. Youth empowerment Kabera said efforts under Resolution 13 have focused on empowering youth through entrepreneurship, skills development, and creative industries. “Programs such as Youth Connekt have helped young people access jobs, start businesses, and reduce unemployment,” he said, adding that the Ministry of Public Service and Labour and Rwanda Development Board have partnered with recruitment platforms to expand employment opportunities for youth.
