Senatorial Elections – writing a new chapter

As we gear up for the senatorial elections, I can only observe that this occasion truly belongs to all Rwandans. Through our hard work and dedication we have together built a cohesive and progressive nation that is founded on the principles of meritocracy, social justice and compassion. We worked hard to achieve our shared dream of a better future for all Rwandans. Almost all of our communities have progressed. The trust that Rwandans placed in the first Senate will very soon be discharged to a new group of senators. I have no doubt that they will do their best to rise to the challenge. And so I trust everyone will work alongside the new team to build a Rwanda that will care for all our citizens, educate all our children well, and give everybody full opportunities to fulfil their aspirations. It is also my hope that this political transition is not just a change of senators, but also a generational change for Rwanda, one that is in tune with the ever changing demands of the 21st century. The majority of Rwandans today were born after 1970. They grew up in different times and a different Rwanda compared to their parents. It is important that these realities are reflected in the new team because it is imperative that they are in tune with the needs and aspirations of this generation. The new senators are expected to continue building a vibrant and competitive economy. That is the way to create good jobs, and improve the lives of all our citizens. Without the resources that come from growth, we cannot achieve much. But prosperity is not our only goal, nor is economic growth an end in itself. We want to give our children quality education. As we prosper, we can afford to invest more in our young, and we should do so. We want the young generation to think independently, to explore with confidence, and to pursue their passions. We must nurture them into stout-hearted, upright adults. Education is not just about training for jobs. It is about opening doors for our children, and giving them hope and opportunities. They are our future. Our future is full of promise, but we must be prepared for the unexpected. In a globalised world, we must re-think our assumptions, take bold and fresh approaches and adapt to changing conditions. We will overcome each new challenge, as we have always done - by recognising it, by putting our minds together to find imaginative solutions, and by tackling the problems resolutely as one people. Only then can we rise above our problems, and bring our people and our country to even greater heights. Our prospects are brighter than ever before. Our economy is growing strongly. We are well-positioned at the centre of a continent which is on the move. There are plenty of opportunities for all of us if we make the effort, take calculated risks and stay united. As a nation, we are stronger, more cohesive, and have more resources than ever before. The future is ours to make. I pray the new senators will strive to keep Rwanda a haven in an uncertain world, open to all for business, safe for citizens and friends, and a welcoming home that gladdens our hearts every time we return from our travels. Let us build a nation where every citizen has a place, where all can live in dignity and harmony, and where we all have the opportunity to raise our children and realise our dreams. All Rwandans are ready to join you in writing the next chapter of the Rwanda story, working with you to make Rwanda a home we love, a community we belong to, and a country we are proud to call our own. liban.mugabo@gmail.com

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Senatorial Elections – writing a new chapter