Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva has reminded African countries of the need to reduce reliance on foreign aid and prioritize self-reliance in driving the continent’s development agenda.
Dr. Nsengiyumva represented President Paul Kagame at the 43rd session of the Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee (HSGOC) of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD). The virtual meeting was held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
In his address, the Prime Minister stressed that while international partnerships remain important, Africa must take primary responsibility for financing and implementing its own development priorities.
“Africa must maintain momentum in implementing its development agenda. While partnerships are important, external support should not outweigh the contributions of African Union member states. This is essential for the ongoing African Union reforms and for our shared goals of dignity and self-reliance,” he said.
AUDA-NEPAD was established in 2018 to advance the aspirations of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework aimed at achieving inclusive governance, sustainable development, and lasting peace across the continent by the year 2063.
In 2023, President Paul Kagame concluded his term as Chairperson of the HSGOC of AUDA-NEPAD, earning recognition for his leadership and contribution to institutional reforms within the African Union.
