Top American movie star Ashley Judd has lauded President Paul Kagame and the First Lady Jeannette Kagame for their courageous and dedicated leadership.

Speaking at a press conference at the Kigali Serena Hotel, the Hollywood star said that Rwanda was a country blessed with a unique leadership.

"I thank Mr. and Mrs. Kagame for their courageous and dedicated leadership to the country"

She said Rwanda’s leadership has done a commendable job in helping eradicate diseases like malaria. She added that the country is very active in efforts towards improvement.

"I find your country to be very active in improving itself" she said.

The star best known for leading roles in a series of thrillers like Kiss The Girls, Double Jeopardy and High Crimes, ended her visit to Rwanda yesterday.

She was in Rwanda from mid last week and visited several programs run by the International NGO Population Services International (PSI), including the launch of Eau Sur, a water purifying solution in Rubavu district, Western Province.

One tiny cap-full of Eau Sur liquid purifies twenty litters of water- enough for to a family of six- for Frw 300.

Judd who is active in humanitarian and political causes, is a Global Ambassador for Youth AIDS, an education and prevention program for PSI promoting AIDS treatment and prevention. She is also a board member of the organization.

She further commended the partnership between the government and PSI in the health sector.

Judd also expressed regret for her country’s failure to intervene to stop the 1994 Genocide against Tutsis.

"I feel a lot of hop hope for Rwanda and the West should be ashamed for not doing much in supporting it in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide. We need to provide appropriate ongoing support," said the actress.

She commended the country for doing a great job to commemorate the Genocide through the many Genocide memorials.

Judd further said that her trip to Rwanda was emotional and unforgettable. She promised to be more active in promoting Rwandan exports like handicrafts and to also talk about Rwanda internationally.

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