President Paul Kagame has been inaugurated for a fourth term in a ceremony that drew over 40,000 Rwandans and a host of international dignitaries, including 23 Heads of State and Government.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium, was marked by a grand display of military prowess. The event featured a 21-gun salute by the presidential guard, a flyover by the Rwanda Air Force, and cultural performances that entertained the crowd.
Kagame, widely regarded as a liberator and credited with bringing stability and prosperity to a nation once devastated by genocide, expressed his gratitude in his inaugural address.
“I am honoured to serve Rwanda for another term,” he said, thanking the Rwandan people for their continued trust in his leadership.
Reflecting on the country’s progress over the past three decades, Kagame described the achievements as “unbelievable” and emphasised the significance of maintaining this momentum.
In his address, Kagame also touched on regional security concerns, particularly the ongoing instability in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He urged African leaders to collaborate in ensuring lasting peace across the continent.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Malawi’s Vice President Dr Michael Usi, Zimbabwean President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Kenyan President William Ruto.
