He made the remarks on Wednesday evening, December 31, 2025, during his end-of-year address to the nation.

President Kagame thanked Rwandans for the trust and cooperation they demonstrated throughout the year, noting that these values played a central role in the country’s achievements.

“The past year, 2025, brought significant growth and opportunity for our country, alongside real challenges. I thank all Rwandans for your trust and cooperation this year,” he said.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s journey, the Head of State emphasized the country’s long-standing ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger.

“Throughout our journey, we have turned obstacles into opportunities, and emerged stronger. We must never lose sight of where we have come from, and always carry this resolve forward as we continue building,” President Kagame said.

He stressed that Rwanda’s future depends on its own choices and collective effort, urging citizens not to rely on others to deliver development.

“Our economy has grown, and the responsibility we now carry is to protect and make good use of the resources we have as a nation. We must not wait for anyone else to deliver our development or well-being,” he said.

President Kagame highlighted Rwanda’s youth as the country’s most valuable asset, calling on young people to safeguard the progress made and to advance it further with discipline and innovation.

“Young Rwandans are the foundation of our future. It is your duty to preserve what we have built and take it further, even when it demands sacrifice,” he added.

The President noted that 2025 was also a year that elevated Rwanda’s international profile, citing major global and continental events hosted in the country, including high-level security and governance forums, as well as Rwanda’s hosting of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali.

“Hosting the championship in Kigali and welcoming world-class athletes was a great honor for our country. I sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event,” he said.

Turning to the outlook for the years ahead, President Kagame expressed confidence in Rwanda’s path, encouraging citizens to remain focused, optimistic, and ambitious.

“The future we deserve is within reach. We must stay the course, remain positive, and continue aiming higher,” he concluded.

President Kagame ended his message by wishing all Rwandans a happy and prosperous New Year 2026, on behalf of himself and his family.