New UNDP boss commits to stronger cooperation

The new United Nations Resident Coordinator to Rwanda, Lamin Manneh has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to maintaining strong cooperation with Rwanda.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Prime Minister Pierre Damien Habumuremyi (L) leads the new United Nations Resident Coordinator Lamin Manneh from his office yesterday. The New Times / T. Kisambira.

The new United Nations Resident Coordinator to Rwanda, Lamin Manneh has reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to maintaining strong cooperation with Rwanda.Speaking to journalists after paying a courtesy call on the Prime Minister, Dr Pierre Damien Habumuremyi, yesterday, said that Rwanda plays a key role to the UN system."Rwanda is in good relationship with UN. It’s true there are some political issues but Rwanda is playing a key role in the UN system.  Sometimes partners have some issues from time to time and those problems are temporary and will be solved,” Manneh said.Manneh, who is also UNDP Country Representative, commended Rwanda’s economic transformation, stressing the need for dynamic leadership if African countries are to develop.The new UN official called on the continent to fully utilise the available resources to transform its economic image in the world.Citing agriculture, health sector, ICT, gender equality, and education, he said, Rwanda is emerging as a leader in Africa due to the dynamic leadership of President Paul Kagame.The UN diplomat said Kigali has played a significant role in supporting the UN activities, emphasising it was necessary to strengthen the relationship.