GABIRO, Rwanda, July 28, 2026 — President Paul Kagame has called on Rwanda's young people to embrace discipline, responsibility, and self reliance, urging them to safeguard the country's achievements and play an active role in shaping its future.
The President made the remarks during an interactive dialogue with 769 participants of the 16th cohort of Itorero Indangamirwa at the Gabiro Combat Training Centre in Gatsibo District.
Throughout the discussion, President Kagame emphasized that Rwanda's future now rests in the hands of its young people. He encouraged the participants to protect the progress the country has made through the liberation struggle, reconciliation, and national development, stressing that such achievements should never be taken for granted.
«The future belongs to you »
Reflecting on his own journey, President Kagame explained that his decision to return to Rwanda and join the liberation struggle was a conscious choice driven by duty, conviction, and commitment to the nation rather than the pursuit of an easier path. He encouraged the youth to understand that patriotism is built on personal responsibility and a willingness to serve one's country.
A key message throughout the discussion was the importance of discipline. President Kagame said discipline, focus, and critical thinking are essential qualities for overcoming challenges and driving national development. He urged the youth to pursue education, make responsible decisions, and remain committed to excellence as they prepare to lead Rwanda into the future.
The President also reminded participants that Rwanda's history offers valuable lessons about the importance of protecting national unity and preventing the mistakes of the past. He warned that progress can only be sustained when citizens remain united, responsible, and committed to the country's shared values.
Responding to questions about global security and international affairs, President Kagame acknowledged that the world continues to face growing uncertainty. He encouraged young Rwandans to focus on strengthening their own country, stressing that Rwanda's development will continue to depend on the determination, resilience, and collective efforts of its people rather than external support.
During the dialogue, President Kagame also highlighted the importance of preserving Kinyarwanda as a pillar of national identity. He directed the Rwanda Defence Force and the Rwanda National Police to strengthen Kinyarwanda instruction within their institutions and proposed digital learning programs that would allow young people, including those studying abroad, to improve their language skills wherever they are.
Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement Dr Jean Damascene Bizimana said Itorero Indangamirwa equips participants with values of patriotism, unity, resilience, discipline, and self reliance while encouraging them to become solution oriented leaders who believe in their own potential.
The 16th cohort comprises 769 participants, including Rwandan students studying abroad, students from international schools in Rwanda, university students, and outstanding graduates of the National Service Program. According to Dr Bizimana, more than 5,900 young people have completed Itorero Indangamirwa since the program was launched in 2008.
This year's edition was held at the Gabiro Combat Training Centre for the first time, replacing the traditional venue in Nkumba. Participation nearly doubled compared with previous editions, reflecting the continued expansion of the civic education program and reinforcing the role of Itorero in preparing a new generation of disciplined, patriotic, and responsible leaders..
