While leaders’ office tenure ends, responsibilities do not until someone dies, the Minister for Local Government, Francis Kaboneka, has said.

Kaboneka was yesterday speaking at the inauguration of Kicukiro District local government’s new complex.

The Rwf300-million complex was constructed in partnership between the district and residents. It is one of the targets highlighted in the district performance contracts.

Mayors stand down on January 29 ahead of the next local government elections in February and March.

Kaboneka commended the hard work of local leaders and residents, noting that leaders should be judged on their impact.

"The mandate for local leaders is over but their responsibilities are not over. There are more responsibilities to build the country. Leaders should be evaluated through achievements. Such an infrastructure [the complex] is a result of good collaboration between leaders and citizens,” he said.

"This year, we started with referendum and we should end with it for better solutions to our own problems. We should prepare a bright future for posterity. Challenges are many but they are not insurmountable.”

Kaboneka said the incoming local leaders should base on the foundation of their predecessors to move the country forward.

The Mayor of the City of Kigali, Fidèle Ndayisaba, said such new infrastructure boosts the image of the city.

He said more efforts are still needed to renovate other infrastructure such as roads and other premises.

Paul-Jules Ndamage, the mayor of Kicukiro, said: "We have done many things during our mandate but more remains to be done. This conference hall comes from community strengths. New leaders should work with the community for success.”

Grassroots leaders were recognised with certificates for their role in improving residents’ welfare.

Peninah Abatoni, Kinunga village leader, was awarded a certificate of excellence as the best performer in Kicukiro District.

Abatoni said team work, collaboration, and listening were responsible for her outstanding work.

The new complex will host a conference hall, a library and coffee shop.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw