The youth have been urged to be conscious of Rwanda’s past as they seek to contribute to the socio-economic development.

Speaking during a forum, dubbed ‘Inter-generation Dialogue’, in Musanze District in Northern Province, yesterday, various speakers called on the youth to borrow lessons from the country’s recovery so they can better make their own contribution toward the national development process.

"A man without his past is like a tree without its roots. Reflect on our country’s past, close the dark chapter of our history and end deep-rooted differences,” Miss Rwanda 2016 Jolly Mutesi, the brain behind the inter-generational dialogue series, said.

She urged the youth to have a sense of responsibility, accountability and ownership in whatever they do as the county’s future lies in their hands.

The meeting attracted over 1000 youths from across the province.

The Minister for Sports and Culture, Julienne Uwacu, reminded the young people present that there were high expectations in them as they are the future leaders of the country.

"Nothing comes on a silver platter,” she said, adding that the youth should always engage in productive activities.

Speaking about the potential of the youth, MP Theoneste Karenzi said that the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was stopped by a small group of young people who went on to create a conducive environment for all Rwandans.

He challenged them to actively help consolidate the gains that the country has since made, thanks in large part to the men and women that ended the 1994 Genocide and went on to set the country on a path of recovery and strong economic growth.

The inter-generation dialogue series were initiated by Mutesi while she was still reigning Miss Rwanda last year.

The initiative, which serves to create a learning platform for the youth through interaction with inspirational older compatriots, was first conducted in Kigali before being extended to the countryside. A similar event was held in Rubavu, Western Province, last week.

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