President Paul Kagame has emphasized that religious institutions play a vital role in the country’s development, urging them to first fulfill their core responsibilities effectively in order to make a meaningful contribution to citizens’ well-being.
He made the remarks on Wednesday while meeting Muslim leaders and followers from across the country, noting that Rwanda is on a path of transformation driven by good governance, unity, and the active participation of all citizens.
Kagame stated that the country is undergoing a broad transformation in governance, social systems, and national mindset, stressing that every Rwandan has a role to play and that no one should face discrimination.
He highlighted that Islam, like other religions in Rwanda, shares a common goal of promoting well-being and contributing to national progress, despite having its own unique history in the country.
The President also pointed out that while religious organizations are important, some internal challenges need to be addressed to improve their effectiveness. He noted that in certain cases, individuals misuse religion for personal gain rather than serving the wider community.
Kagame said the government has introduced measures to ensure that religious institutions operate transparently and responsibly, enabling them to better support national development.
He concluded by clarifying that these measures should not be seen as interference or oppression, but rather as efforts to help religious institutions improve their functioning and enhance their positive impact on society.