President Paul Kagame has outlined his aspirations for Rwanda if re-elected in the upcoming national presidential and parliamentary elections on July 15.
Kagame is one of three candidates running in the elections, which will determine the country’s leadership for the next five years. In an interview with the national broadcaster on Monday, June 17, Kagame addressed whether the country’s recent achievements set a challenging standard for candidates.
Kagame stated that Rwanda’s accomplishments illustrate what is possible but emphasized the need for continued progress. “After seeing what is possible and that it is clear that it is coming from you as Rwandans, what should stop you from doing better to reach further into a better future?” he said.
He highlighted successes in health, infrastructure, sports, and agriculture, asserting that those who strive for swift and far-reaching progress will always challenge themselves to achieve more. “We have not yet reached where we should be proud to be, though we are taking steps,” he noted.
Citing examples such as last year’s 8 percent economic growth and the increase in electricity coverage to 77 percent, Kagame stressed the importance of aiming higher. He encouraged the nation to pursue a 10 percent or higher economic growth rate and to achieve full electricity coverage.
Kagame concluded by stating that this forward-thinking mindset drives his campaign for the 2024 elections.
