First Lady Highlights Self-Love and Growth on Women’s Day

In a powerful message to commemorate the day, Mrs. Kagame encouraged women to nurture self-respect and confidence, emphasizing the importance of mutual support in both personal and professional journeys.

“Happy Women’s Day! I urge you to carve your character carefully, define your boundaries, advocate for yourselves and other women and girls, and protect your physical and mental health,” she said. “And please, love yourself with the same gentleness you give others—the same gentleness you wish and deserve to experience from the world.”

The First Lady’s remarks reflect Rwanda’s broader commitment to holistic empowerment, a model that pairs economic and political inclusion with emotional well-being. While Rwanda has achieved global recognition for gender equality, including women holding over 61% of seats in the lower house of Parliament and participating in a gender-balanced cabinet, Mrs. Kagame emphasized that sustainable development also depends on women’s ability to thrive with dignity.

As the founder of the Imbuto Foundation, Mrs. Kagame has led initiatives in education, health, and family development for more than two decades, providing mentorship, scholarships, and leadership training for thousands of girls, and boosting female representation in sciences and professional leadership.

The First Lady’s focus on mental health complements recent government efforts to decentralize services to local health centers and launch campaigns addressing stigma surrounding mental illness. Marie Médiatrice Umubyeyi, Executive Secretary of the National Women’s Council, called on women to leverage these opportunities, saying, “The government has restored the dignity of women; it is therefore imperative that they value this by taking up leadership roles and striving for dignity within the family and society.”

International Women’s Day in Rwanda is both a celebration of achievements and a reminder of ongoing challenges, including teenage pregnancy, domestic conflict, and economic barriers. Mrs. Kagame’s message underscores a vital truth: women’s empowerment requires self-care, resilience, and the freedom to thrive with dignity.