First Lady Jeannette Kagame has urged women to step up their role in Rwanda’s development, stressing the need for mindset change, self-confidence and active participation in economic transformation.
She delivered the message on Saturday while opening the 6th General Assembly of the women’s league of FPR Inkotanyi, which brought together more than 2,000 delegates.
In a strong call for self-reliance, Jeannette Kagame said Rwanda has already laid a solid foundation for women’s empowerment through progressive laws and inclusive leadership.
“The country has given us everything—laws that protect us and leadership that values women. The rest is up to us,” she said.
She emphasized that women must translate these opportunities into tangible contributions to national development, urging them to remain committed to the country’s progress.
The First Lady also underscored women’s critical role in shaping families and society, particularly through raising responsible citizens and safeguarding values.
“While a woman may not do everything, her role as the foundation of the family is irreplaceable,” she noted.
Reflecting on Rwanda’s history, she paid tribute to the resilience and sacrifice of women during the liberation struggle, highlighting their role in supporting the struggle and raising families in difficult circumstances.
She further warned that changing global trends could erode societal values, calling on women to remain vigilant in preserving Rwanda’s cultural and moral foundations.
Secretary-General of FPR Inkotanyi, Christophe Bazivamo, commended the First Lady’s continued advocacy for women’s empowerment and praised participants for their achievements and future commitments.
The assembly reviewed progress in advancing women’s empowerment and set the tone for renewed efforts to accelerate inclusive and sustainable national development.
