Editor,

The year 2010 is ending in the next few hours. At exactly midnight, we will be celebrating the New Year – 2011. Everyone has a story to tell about the year ending, and so do us, Rwandans, as a people. For me, 2010 was an eventful and historic year with regard to our country’s socio-economic development.

For instance, while many countries around the world struggled to save their economies following the global economic recession – with many adopting austerity measures – Rwanda’s economy remained on a steady growth course, and the government went ahead with its usual development projects, such as road construction.

Food production increased despite some dry spells, and thousands of Nine Year Basic Education Classrooms were commissioned.

Politically, the country held its second ever democratic elections, marked by record crowds during campaigns. President Paul Kagame easily cruised to a deserved landslide victory, largely due to his insurmountable record over the previous seven years.

On the Election Day itself, millions woke up so early and had already cast their votes by midday, way before the closing time. Of course the National Electoral Commission conducted the process so efficiently with the support of every Rwandan. I am proud we proved the cynical world wrong and decided to forge our own future.

My wish for all Rwandans and our country is that we continue to register progress, both at individual and national level, not only in the coming year, but in many more ahead. Happy New Year to you all!

Joseph Mugisha
Kacyiru