By Jackie Lumbasi
The 19th National Dialogue Council ‘Umushyikirano,’ kicks off today at the Kigali Convention Centre. The two-day dialogue brings together members of the Cabinet and lawmakers, representatives of the Rwandan community abroad, local government, Civil Society Organizations, media, and the diplomatic community, among others, to discuss issues of national importance.
Umushyikirano is governed by Article 168 of the Constitution and is a forum where participants debate issues relating to the state of the nation, the state or functioning of the decentralized structures, and national unity.
Besides physical participation, there is participation via telephone calls, social media and SMS. The event is broadcast live on radio and TV.
The dialogue comes at a time when the seven-year National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) is drawing to an end.
Adopted in 2017, the strategy set out the government’s plans for achieving its 2020 and 2050 Vision’s for economic development building on lessons learned, successes and challenges encountered in previous medium-term development strategies.
A government statement announcing the dates said “This year’s Umushyikirano will review progress made in enhancing the well-being of Rwandans and addressing challenges faced. It will also be an opportunity to reflect on Rwanda’s unity and resilience journey as we approach Kwibuka 30 and efforts to empower young Rwandans to lead national transformation.”
At the end of the two-day dialogue chaired by President Paul Kagame, participants will draw up resolutions that guide what is done in the year ahead.
The last edition of Umushyikirano took place in February 2023. Some of the key resolutions passed were the improvement of public transport, increased engagement of the diaspora in national development, and increased agricultural and livestock productivity through access to finance for farmers among others.
