Kigali, Rwanda – President Paul Kagame has urged young Rwandans to place personal growth at the center of national development, telling them that the future of the country depends on how well they build themselves first.
He delivered the message on December 29, 2025, during an end-of-year gathering with various people including youths, as Rwanda closed a year marked by stability, resilience and continued investment in human capital.
Addressing the audience, Kagame highlighted Rwanda’s unique demographic profile, noting that nearly 75 percent of the population is under the age of 30.
He described this youthful majority as a powerful asset, but warned that numbers alone do not guarantee progress unless they are matched with discipline, values and productive engagement.
“To you the youth who are here, you are the majority of Rwanda’s population. Having 75% of the population under 30 is an immense source of strength,” he said.
The President stressed that this strength must be anchored in meaningful work and a strong value system that enables young people to grow as individuals while contributing to the country’s transformation.
He linked personal responsibility directly to national progress, reminding the youth that development begins at the individual level. “We have to ensure that strength is anchored in our values and meaningful work that enable you to build yourself and your country,” he said.
Kagame emphasized that self-improvement is not optional but essential to nation-building, urging young people to invest in skills, integrity and hard work. “You cannot build Rwanda without building yourself first,” he told them, framing the message as both a challenge and a call to action.
Rwanda has an existing broader focus on youth empowerment through education, innovation and employment. Kagame expressed hope that young Rwandans will rise to the responsibility that comes with opportunity. “That is what I ask of you and that is my wish for you,” he said.
