President Kagame Engages 16th Cohort of Itorero Indangamirwa at Gabiro, Urges Self-Reliance and National Contribution
President Paul Kagame speaking to the Young People
Kigali / Gabiro, July 28–29, 2026 — Rwandan President Paul Kagame held an interactive session yesterday with participants of the 16th cohort of the Itorero Indangamirwa programme at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Gabiro Combat Training Center. The meeting focused on values, discipline, personal responsibility, and the youth’s role in building the nation.
Itorero Indangamirwa is a civic education and values-based programme that incorporates cultural formation and basic military training. High-ranking national officials attended the discussion between the President and the young participants.
In his address, President Kagame stressed the importance of rejecting a culture of dependence and entitlement. “Many people sit back and expect that somebody will look after them; people call it dependence. Dependence is another word for stupidity,” he said. He urged the young people to take personal initiative, work hard, and contribute actively to solving problems rather than waiting for external solutions.
Kagame told the cohort that lasting progress begins with individual effort and self-reliance. He encouraged them to innovate, collaborate, and take the first step on their ideas, seeking support when needed rather than remaining passive. “If you have an idea, don’t just sit back and complain,” he remarked.
Another notable statement highlighted national loyalty and reciprocity: “If your country turns its back on you, you wouldn’t want to turn your back on the country.” He also emphasized the role of Itorero in instilling discipline and values that help individuals stay focused on their goals and make sound decisions throughout life.
Speaking in Kinyarwanda in parts of the engagement, the President called on the participants to leave the programme with a clear sense of responsibility for nation-building. He stressed that they should see themselves as problem-solvers and creators who contribute to the country’s well-being, adding that the nation would in turn support those who play their part. He advised the youth to value themselves, defend their rights, and uphold Rwandan values.
Kagame reflected on personal and historical choices, noting that returning to fight for Rwanda’s liberation was a deliberate decision rooted in conviction rather than remaining as refugees or stateless. He encouraged early and continuous reflection on family, personal life, and the nation.
During the interaction, one participant who had studied plumbing technology but lacked employment reportedly received a job assurance from the President. Participants had undergone basic military training as part of the Itorero session at the Gabiro center.
The engagement forms part of regular interactions between national leadership and successive Itorero cohorts, aimed at reinforcing civic responsibility and preparing young Rwandans for meaningful contribution to society.
About The Author
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
