Rwanda PM tells Russian forum youth can rebuild nations
Justin Nsengiyumva warned that young people's energy can be manipulated to fuel violence, citing the 1994 genocide.
Rwanda’s Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva told a Russia–Africa youth forum in Moscow on October 29 that the country's post-genocide recovery offers lessons for young people. Nsengiyumva stated that Rwanda's experience showed how youth can rebuild a nation but also how their energy can be used to fuel violence.
Speaking at MGIMO University, Nsengiyumva said that over one million people died in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in 100 days. He explained that young people were manipulated by the regime responsible for the atrocities, but others fought to end the tragedy. The Prime Minister highlighted the role of the Rwanda Patriotic Army, led by Paul Kagame, in securing the country and choosing reconciliation over revenge.
Nsengiyumva outlined Rwanda’s recovery strategies, including fighting corruption, progressive business rules, and investments in infrastructure, digital transformation, and skills. He also mentioned Rwanda’s visa-free policy for all African citizens, which he said removes barriers for economic integration and youth opportunities. The Prime Minister asserted that Africa's future depends on countries working together to enable young people to move, exchange ideas, and build businesses.
Why it mattersYoung Africans can learn from Rwanda's post-genocide recovery on how to rebuild their nations and avoid manipulation.