Infrastructure in all form is the backbone of success

In a country with few resources every decision counts. Investing big in infrastructure is a wise decision as, ultimately, every facet, beginning with appearance and healthy facilities, will determine the success and reputation of the country. But infrastructure is far more than appearance. While the government has properly put in place strong yet flexible political infrastructure in the form of the 2003 constitution, it is imperative to now make the physicality of the country and its facilities up to par. The question of the methane gas potential in the western Lake Kivu will continue to be a major hurdle to tackle, but one that, ultimately, can revive the strength and optimism of the economy and budget. While it is important, as some in parliament have said, to “not put all of our eggs in one basket” it is rational and timely to focus serious attention on the energy issue, hopefully one that the Ministry of Infrastructure will be able to solve. Rwanda has long had one of the most developed transport infrastructures in the region. Still, there is much room for improvement. The new funds authored to infrastructure should help this among others. With an economy such as this and with the amount of work yet to be done, there are few ways Rwanda can go wrong with spending its money. That being said, a second but major priority for the budget, government, and people of the country in general is the young education system. Strong political, physical, and educational infrastructure—a well-implemented grand strategy and culture for education from primary to university—will be the Holy Trinity of Rwanda’s success. Lastly, praise must be given to Minister of Finance James Musoni for keeping the budget in Rwandan control. While a large portion—nearly 49 per cent—of the budget will be garnered through foreign aid, the significant side will come from Rwanda itself. As long as the country continues on this path, good things are sure to follow.Ends