President Paul Kagame yesterday inspired Rwandans to work harder in pursuit of the nation’s development and self-reliance.

He was speaking to thousands of residents in Nyamirambo, shortly after participating in the monthly community work, Umuganda.

At the site, the President was joined by several government officials and foreign diplomats to lay foundations for homes of widows of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

"External help must only come as an addition to our own efforts to better ourselves. If we wait for others to develop our country, we will not make progress,” the President said.

"We are not working to become different people; we must be proud to be who we are, work hard and be determined to continue on the path of development”.

He reminded Rwandans that despite differences in beliefs, they all stand to benefit from a developed country. 

"All of us have a duty and we cannot give our duties to other people. Umuganda should teach us that if we come together as Rwandans despite our different beliefs or personalities, we shall all gain from positive contribution”.

He reminded the residents about the value in Umuganda and urged them to use the period to understand the country’s challenges and identify ways in which they can overcome them.

"It is pleasing to see many Rwandans coming together and having the same vision for their country. Our country has responsible and healthy people who respect each other, which is contrary to our history which was based on division and hatred. As we remember 20 years since the Genocide happened, we see that if we go in this path of togetherness, we shall achieve many goals and reach greater heights,” he said.

The President said that it was normal to face challenges and urged resident to always make good preparation to confront such challenges and ensure they do not get frustrated.  "We should therefore always listen to each other’s ideas, respect one another, learn as much as we can, understand our history and ensure that the common goals are the priority.”

Yesterday’s Umuganda was a special event in preparation for Commemoration period of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi that begins on April 7.

It was celebrated internationally as "Global Umuganda” and attracted millions from all over the world who joined Rwanda in cleaning streets and neighbourhoods in honour of the victims and survivors of the 1994 Genocide.

Notable cities that participated in Global Umuganda include Kampala, Montreal, Kuala Lumpur, London, New York and Ottawa.