Women leaders must be committed – 1st Lady

KIGALI - The First Lady, Jeanette Kagame, has called on women in leadership positions to sacrifice personal advantage in favour of commitment to positively contribute to the development of their country.She made the remarks, yesterday, during a prayer breakfast meeting at Serena Hotel, that attracted the Burundi First Lady, Denyse Nkurunziza, as well as over 200 women leaders from Rwanda and Burundi.

Sunday, February 13, 2011
First Lady Jeannette Kagame (C) was joined by her Burundian counterpart, Denise Nkurunziza (L), at a prayer breakfast in Kigali yesterday. Also in the photo is Chief Justice Aloysia Cyanzayire. (Courtesy photo)

KIGALI - The First Lady, Jeanette Kagame, has called on women in leadership positions to sacrifice personal advantage in favour of commitment to positively contribute to the development of their country.

She made the remarks, yesterday, during a prayer breakfast meeting at Serena Hotel, that attracted the Burundi First Lady, Denyse Nkurunziza, as well as over 200 women leaders from Rwanda and Burundi.

Mrs. Kagame said it had been demonstrated in several national programs that women play a vital role in development and advised them to be inspired by the selfless service of Jesus Christ.

"Many people confuse leadership with personal advantage, power and prestige; but good and visionary leadership is beyond that. Christian leadership is about inspiring people and empowering the people you lead,” Mrs. Kagame said.

"As mothers and leaders, it is not easy to balance the two duties, but when someone is entrusted with a leadership role, they should serve with commitment as though they were working for God.”

The First Lady further reminded the guests that although the number of women in leadership had grown tremendously, they must first consider the fruits and gains that they offer to their communities.

"Results are what count as most important. There is nothing better than leaving behind a good legacy for having served your community in the best way possible,” she said.

The Burundi First Lady urged the women leaders to balance between their work and family in order to serve to the best of their abilities.

"In everything you do, put God first, family second, work third and self, fourth. This way, God will inspire you to be a good parent, wife and a leader,” she said.

"As a leader and parent, you must have a vision and know where you want your community to be in future. Then God will guide you and give you the strength to serve commendably.”

The guests were treated to worship music from a Burundian choir which was led by Mrs. Nkurunziza.

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