The three-day National Leadership Retreat that took place at Gabiro School of Infantry in Gatsibo District, Eastern Province, ended yesterday with rekindled commitments to transform Rwanda into a middle income nation by 2020 where EDPRS 2 will play a pivotal role.

The last day of the 10th retreat focused on infrastructure, human capacity development and the improvement of public service delivery. President Kagame urged all public service officials to look beyond presentations on achievements and to keep an open mind to the kind of learning that will lead to the desired change Rwanda deserves.

"We know what we want and we should not be adverse to learning. If we are sure of where we want to go and what it takes for us to get there,” he said. "Why should it be difficult? It is about having the right attitude.”

On the issue of the hindering obstacles that engulf Rwanda, President Kagame told the leaders to rather consider it a motivation that will lead to greater achievements: "Injustices are a reminder, they keep waking you up and push you to give your all,” said the Head of State.

To achieve the targeted 11.5 per cent annual growth rate as envisaged under EDPRS 2, infrastructure remains a priority. Prof. Silas Lwakabamba, Minister of Infrastructure, highlighted key priorities for the next five years that include urbanisation, rural resettlement, energy and transport.

Minister Lwakabamba explained EDPRS 2 plans to develop secondary cities across the country, increase financing and supply of affordable housing as well as improve infrastructure for the growing population in urban areas.

He also pointed to appropriate transport as a critical focus of infrastructure development citing air cargo as a key target for EDPRS 2.

In addition to developing physical infrastructure, EDPRS 2 aims to consolidate achievements in education with a particular focus on vocational training in priority areas of economic development.

The Minister of Education Dr. Vincent Biruta emphasized the importance of changing the mindset that leads young people to consider vocational training as less valuable education.

"Youth should know that education is not simply about a degree. Vocational training will be a crucial contribution to achieving the targets set out in EDPRS 2,” he said.

The eventful retreat ended with renewed energy and commitments from leaders to better serve Rwandans.