Paul Jules Ndamage was yesterday sworn in as the Kicukiro district’s new Mayor, one week after being elected.

The ceremony took place at Kicukiro College of Technology in Kigali.

Ndamage’s election came after the post fell vacant following the resignation of William Ntidendereza, in mid August citing personal reasons.

The law governing local government stipulates that a Mayor should be replaced in a period of 90 days after the post falls vacant.

After swearing in, Ndamage pledged to work hand-in-hand with all the other leaders in the various leadership capacities to make sure that he completes the tasks that his predecessors left behind.

He also said that he was going to work on empowering the lower leadership levels so that they can partner with him in improving the people’s welfare.

"I am going to work hard to ensure that Kicukiro does not remain the least developed in Kigali City. Districts that have been leading should be alert because I have come to take their place,” Ndamage warned, sending a wave of applause in the audience.

He also pledged to work hard on issues such as land disputes, empowering youth and women.

Georgetta Rutayisire, was also sworn in as Kicukiro District Deputy Mayor in charge of Finance and Economic Planning.   On behalf of the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), Alphonse Hategekimana, its Legal Advisor in the ministry, advised the new Mayor to abide by the principles of good leadership if he is to realise his ambitions.

"The only secrets for a leader to be successful are integrity, fulfilment of pledges and efficiency,” said Hategikimana who later handed the constitution and laws governing local governments to Ndamage.

Florence Kayiraba who has been the district’s acting Mayor thanked all the leaders who had helped her during her tenure and pledged to support the new leadership.

Paul Jules Ndamage is a journalist by profession and prior to his election was a Programme Manager at Orinfor, the government media organ.

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