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“Rwanda First, Everything Else Comes After” – Prime Minister Dr. Nsengiyumva
Rwanda’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, has vowed to put the country’s interests above all else and to continue implementing government programs with urgency and dedication. He urged fellow leaders and civil servants to act swiftly and effectively in their responsibilities.
He made the remarks on the afternoon of Friday, July 25, 2025, during the official handover ceremony with his predecessor, Dr. Edouard Ngirente, who served as Prime Minister for eight years. The event, held at the Prime Minister’s Office in Kigali, was attended by cabinet ministers, senior officials, and staff members.
In his speech, Dr. Nsengiyumva expressed deep gratitude to President Paul Kagame for appointing him to the role, describing it as a rare and humbling privilege.
He said, “Out of over 14 million Rwandans, for him to choose me is a blessing I cannot explain. I must do everything in my power to ensure he never regrets appointing me. I am committed to supporting him in achieving the vision he has for this country.”
Dr. Nsengiyumva also praised his predecessor, Dr. Ngirente, for his outstanding service, saying he had set a high standard.
“What you have done for this country over the last eight years is incredible. The shoes you are leaving behind are big, and it will take a lot of work for me to fit into them. But I will do my best,” he said.
The new Prime Minister emphasized that effective leadership must start within the Office of the Prime Minister, urging staff to lead by example.
“It is an honor to work in the Prime Minister’s Office. This calls for excellence in everything we do. If we are asking others to uphold high standards, we must do so ourselves first. Are we setting the right example for others to follow?” he asked.
He echoed President Kagame’s recent remarks that Rwanda must always come first in leaders’ minds if the country is to achieve its development goals.
“We need to implement laws and policies that directly benefit Rwandans. My top priority will be whatever drives Rwanda’s development. Anything that does not serve that purpose will not be my concern. We don’t have time to waste—we must act,” Dr. Nsengiyumva said.
He concluded by calling on all staff and government leaders to support him in accelerating the implementation of national development programs and policies for the long-term benefit of citizens.
