Prime Minister Urges Youth to Defend Rwanda Against Slander, Emphasizes Role of Itorero in National Development

Nkumba, Rwanda – Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva has called upon Rwandan youth to actively defend the country against misinformation and defamation, highlighting Itorero as a vital institution in shaping their understanding of Rwanda’s national direction.

Speaking on August 14, 2025, at the closing ceremony of the 15th phase of Itorero Indangamirwa, a civic education program, held at the Nkumba Ubutore Center, Dr. Nsengiyumva stressed the importance of using the knowledge acquired through the program to counter those who spread falsehoods about Rwanda.

The Prime Minister explained that Itorero Indangamirwa is designed to complement the education received in schools, providing a robust foundation for the youth to contribute to the country’s future. He urged the graduates to integrate the values and lessons learned within their communities.

“We expect you, as youth, to embrace the lessons from Itorero and actively contribute to our development journey,” Dr. Nsengiyumva stated. “As Indangamirwa, join those who have been trained before you to ensure the continued application of the goals and values you have learned here.”

Addressing the issue of external misinformation, the Prime Minister charged the youth with using their knowledge to combat false narratives. “Those who slander Rwanda, refute their claims and present the truth,” he declared. “As Indangamirwa, you must project a positive image of Rwanda wherever you are, acting as exemplary ambassadors. Carry Rwanda in your heart, uphold Rwandan values, and take pride in your national identity.”

Dr. Nsengiyumva encouraged the youth to consider their individual roles in nation-building, focusing on key pillars such as economic development, social welfare, good governance, and national security.

“We are all called upon to demonstrate a strong will for progress and national development,” he emphasized. “Our history has shown that with determination, we can achieve any goal we set. We will not disregard the lessons of our past.”

The 15th graduating class of Indangamirwa comprised 443 young individuals, including 208 women and 235 men. The cohort included Rwandan students studying abroad, those attending international schools within Rwanda, and high-achieving members in the Civic activities.

Dr. Bizimana Jean Damascene, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, noted that the Indangamirwa program has trained over 5,500 individuals to date, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to national development.

Minister Damascene also announced plans to expand the Ubutore Center to accommodate more participants and to extend civic education activities to all regions of the country, fostering Rwandan values and cultural understanding among the youth.