The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners, and private sector to reflect on the enduring partnership that has contributed to Rwanda's transformation.
Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda's Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the pivotal role the AfDB has played in the country's socio-economic growth.
'This moment offers us an opportunity to reflect on our impactful journey and reaffirm our shared visions for a brighter and more inclusive world,' Murangwa said, hailing Rwanda's progress, calling the country 'a beacon of hope and a model for economic development.'
He acknowledged President Kagame's transformative leadership and the pivotal role of the AfDB in supporting Rwanda's recovery and growth after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
The AfDB's partnership with Rwanda dates back to 1965, with agriculture being the initial area of focus. Over the years, the collaboration has expanded to cover various sectors, including energy, water, sanitation, and infrastructure.
'These achievements are a testament to the strength of our partnership and the unwavering commitment of everyone involved,' Murangwa stated.
Today, Rwanda's portfolio with the Bank stands at $2.21 billion, with 27 projects directly aligned with the country's National Strategies for Transformation (NST1 and NST2).
One of the key areas of success highlighted at the event was the Bank's investment in Rwanda's energy sector. 'These investments have been crucial in improving the standards of living and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,' Murangwa stated.
The country's electricity access has seen a remarkable increase from 16.8% in 2012 to 74.4% in 2023, with the goal of achieving universal access in the near future.
In addition to infrastructure, the AfDB has supported Rwanda's efforts in human capital development. A notable example is the establishment of Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU Africa) in Kigali in 2018, which offers world-class master's programs in fields such as artificial intelligence and engineering.
Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda's exceptional relationship with the African Development Bank, noting that it is the only country in Africa to fully utilize all the Bank's financial mechanisms.
'Rwanda is the fifth largest customer of the AfDB on the continent. This underscores the country's strong partnership with us,' she said.
Sarr discussed key challenges faced by the private sector, particularly the lack of adequate access to finance, technology, and capacity building, especially within the informal sector. She also addressed climate change issues, explaining that the Bank has established a fund to raise climate financing, which will help build more climate-resilient infrastructure.
Moving forward, Sarr stressed the importance of private sector development for Rwanda's long-term growth, saying that the country's future economic development will be driven by the private sector to achieve Rwanda's Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation goals.
'We must continue to build on this foundation, especially through private sector development, to secure Rwanda's future prosperity,' she pointed out.
The celebration also featured the story of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, a beneficiary of the AfDB's investments in education and skills development. Gatsinzi, who began her career in prosthetics and orthotics in 2014, shared her personal journey.
'Thanks to the AfDB's investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,' she said. Today, Gatsinzi advocates for the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities, using her expertise to drive change in her community.
Gatsinzi's story is one of many that highlight the AfDB's impact on human capital development. Thousands of professionals, including students, healthcare workers, and faculty members, have benefited from AfDB-supported training programs, scholarships, and research opportunities.
Notably, 40% of these beneficiaries are women, reflecting the Bank's commitment to gender equity and inclusive growth.
The AfDB's role in Rwanda's development has been transformative, and with the shared vision for a sustainable future, the partnership is poised to continue its success.
This 60th anniversary not only marked a celebration of the past but also set the stage for the future, with a continued commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development for Rwanda.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/afdb-celebrates-60-years-of-development-partnership-with-rwanda
