As we step into 2026, Rwanda reflects on 2025 as a year of remarkable accomplishments—milestones that represent just the tip of the iceberg in our nation’s ongoing journey of transformation.
These achievements, spanning global recognition, economic resilience, diplomatic breakthroughs, urban innovation, environmental stewardship, and cultural triumphs, are the visible peaks of deeper, collective efforts rooted in decades of determination and homegrown solutions. They remind us that true progress is built on unity, vigilance, and shared commitment, propelling us towards the ambitious horizons of Vision 2035 and Vision 2050.
The year placed Rwanda unmistakably on the world stage. Hosting the UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, the first time on African soil, attracted elite athletes and thousands of visitors to our challenging hills, showcasing world-class infrastructure, hospitality, and an emerging cycling ecosystem.
This historic event not only boosted tourism but also advanced youth development through new UCI satellite centres and talent programmes across the country. President Paul Kagame’s receipt of the Champion of Travel and Tourism in Africa award further highlighted Rwanda’s strides in sustainable tourism, a sector that continues to drive foreign exchange and community benefits.
Economically, 2025 demonstrated remarkable resilience and acceleration. GDP growth surged to 11.8% in the third quarter, driven by strong performances in industry (17%), services (10%), and agriculture (10%). Initiatives such as the Financial Sector Development Strategy (2025-2030), alongside reaffirmed stable credit ratings from agencies like S&P, underscored Rwanda’s path towards financial inclusion and macroeconomic strength. Near-universal financial access, innovative disaster risk financing, and advancements in health technology—exemplified by hosting the Africa HealthTech Summit—further bolstered inclusive growth.
Diplomatically, the culmination of efforts in the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity marked a landmark achievement. Brokered by the United States on 4 December, this framework with the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirmed commitments to regional stability, economic integration, and mutual respect.
On the domestic front, the launch of the revised 2025 National Urbanisation Policy set a visionary roadmap for sustainable, citizen-centred cities, targeting 70% urbanisation by 2050, with emphasis on climate resilience, compact development, and inclusive planning. Complementing this, over 20 green initiatives advanced environmental goals, including a new National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP 2025-2030).
Social milestones abounded: continued leadership in gender equity, innovative community reconciliation, and events “such as the PMI Global Summit Series Africa and Hanga Pitchfest empowered entrepreneurs and project leaders.
These triumphs, and countless others in education, innovation, and infrastructure, are the fruits of visionary leadership under President Paul Kagame, whose focus on self-reliance, good governance, and reconciliation has elevated Rwanda as a global model of renewal and hope.” Here is the text extracted from the image:
Yet, as we usher in 2026, we embrace a fundamental truth: no gain is everlasting without sustained effort. Security, the cornerstone of our advancement, requires perpetual vigilance and collaboration. Economic momentum demands ongoing investment in skills, entrepreneurship, and green practices. Sustainable urbanisation and environmental protection call for every Rwandan’s involvement, from adopting modern agriculture to championing reconciliation and upholding Agaciro, our inherent dignity.
Vision 2035 seeks upper-middle-income status through diversified, knowledge-based growth, while Vision 2050 envisions a high-income, resilient nation with high-quality lives for all. Achieving these ambitions requires redoubled collective resolve: bridging divides, nurturing youth innovation, and fostering inclusive participation across society.
In this new year, let us consolidate 2025’s extraordinary legacy by recommitting to unity and purpose under proven guidance. Rwanda’s inspiring story—from rebirth to renaissance—is one we all co-author. Together, with pride and determination, we will secure a prosperous, secure future that continues to light the way for Africa and the world. The horizon ahead shines brighter than ever.
The writer is a Senior Journalist and Social Commentator
