Rwandan president rallies region towards united front for peace

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame was sworn in for his fourth term on the 12th of August at the Amahoro Stadium in the country’s capital, Kigali. The colorful ceremony drew in a multitude of regional and global leaders, showcasing Rwanda's commitment to progress and stability. President Kagame used the occasion to reaffirm his dedication to transforming the country's economy and emphasized the urgent need for peace in the Eastern African region. The inauguration ceremony was a momentous occasion, with over 20 heads of state in attendance or represented. President Kagame expressed gratitude to all those who have supported Rwanda throughout its 30-year journey of rebuilding. He highlighted the joy and engagement of the electoral campaign, with millions attending rallies and participating in the democratic process through voting. The President acknowledged that the significance of the event went beyond numbers, signaling a deeper meaning for Rwanda and its people. In his address, President Kagame underscored the remarkable progress that Rwanda has achieved and stressed the essential role of peace in the Eastern African region. He noted the existing challenges of inequalities and double standards that hinder peace efforts, specifically in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). President Kagame emphasized that sustainable peace requires active engagement from all parties involved, cautioning that external mediation alone cannot deliver effective results without the genuine commitment of the primary stakeholders. The President expressed appreciation for the mediation efforts of regional leaders, including President João Lourenço of Angola and President William Ruto of Kenya, highlighting the ongoing contributions to fostering peace and stability in the region. President Kagame emphasized the collective responsibility of all nations to contribute positively to the peace-building process, emphasizing the need for meaningful actions and cooperation. As Rwanda continues its journey of development and progress under President Kagame's leadership, the call for unity and peace in Eastern Africa resonates as a vital imperative. The commitment to addressing underlying challenges and working towards inclusive and sustainable peace remains a cornerstone of Rwanda's diplomatic efforts and regional engagement. The inauguration ceremony not only marked a significant milestone for Rwanda but also served as a platform for President Kagame to rally regional leaders towards a united front for peace and stability. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and mutual support in addressing shared challenges and advancing common goals for the benefit of all nations in the region. Reporting for CNBC Africa, Abiy Agina captured the essence of President Kagame's inauguration ceremony, showcasing Rwanda's vision for a peaceful and prosperous Eastern Africa.