16,000 follow National Dialogue online

In a move that partly affirms Rwanda’s ICT developpment this year’s National dialogue (Umushiyikirano) was streamed live online allowing Rwandans in the Diaspora and other foreigners interested in developments in Rwanda to follow its proceedings. The streaming which is the first of its kind, was yesterday followed closely by about 16,000 people across the globe. Speaking to The New Times, Joseph Mutima, the project manager, said the main objective of the live stream was to give an opportunity to all Rwandans, including those living abroad, to participate in the development process of their country. The biggest audience was from the U.S.A, Canada, China and South Africa. The national Dialogue is an annual forum for Rwandans to jointly assess the country’s progress and openly exchange ideas that develop the country. A website, www.umushyikirano.gov.rw was opened up and for the first time live phone in lines were installed for the public to ask questions. Short Messaging services (sms) were also used. Umushyikirano gathers hundreds of participants who include all local government officials, civil servants, members of the Senate and the Lower Chambers of Parliament, the private sector, civil society, diplomats, and the Rwandan Diaspora. Ends