Kagame Challenges Young Africans to Drive Change

Kagame delivered the message in Kigali at the opening of the third cohort of the African School of Governance (ASG), which welcomed 51 master’s students from 14 countries. The school, founded in 2022 on his initiative with former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, trains young Africans in governance and leadership to prepare them for high-level roles.

“The education you will receive here will push you to think critically about how to take Africa forward,” Kagame told the students. “This school will prepare you for leadership, but the journey begins within you.”

Kagame outlined three principles for Africa’s youth: knowledge of their continent, accountability, and action.

He said young Africans must understand why the continent has lagged behind and be motivated to change it. “Some challenges have been inherited, but many persist because of inaction or indifference,” he said.

The president also emphasized responsibility. “Earn respect for yourselves and in doing so for your countries and your people. Africa cannot expect respect from the world if Africans themselves fail to honor their responsibilities.”

Finally, Kagame called for action. “Do not be spectators,” he said. “Across the world, economies and technology are advancing; Africa cannot afford to remain behind.”

The 51 students beginning studies at ASG come from Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Nigeria, South Sudan, Gambia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

ASG, which opened its doors in 2023, also serves as a hub for policy dialogue, bringing together governments, the private sector, and academia. It plans to expand its programs to include an Executive Master of Public Administration and short-term leadership training.

ASG Vice President for Academic Affairs Amany El-Sharif described the school as a long-term investment in Africa’s future. “Commit to transforming your ideas into solutions that advance the continent,” he told the students.

Kagame concluded with a warning that Africa cannot afford complacency. “Use your time here well; when your countries call upon you for solutions, be ready to deliver. You are the ones we are counting on.”