Visionary leadership

This week, Rwanda was branded the fastest reforming economy in the East African (EA) region following a great improvement in her doing business ranking done annually by the World Bank. In the Doing Business 2008 Report, the country was ranked 139th out of 181 nations, climbing from 148th last year. According to the report, the nine position jump in ranking was attributed to the introduction of major reforms in many areas. Officials from the Bank’s International Finance Corporation said the country had made remarkable reforms in several areas including construction permits and cross-border trade. WB said the rate of reform is fast comparing the country’s poor background. The annual survey on the ease of conducting business report also said that being the regional fastest, the country is increasingly of interest to investors seeking opportunities in emerging markets. In comparison with EA countries in the number of days it takes to start a business with an average of 48, Rwanda has also reduced the number of days to about 14. The government was also credited for restoring order and achieving healthy economic growth in different sector of the economy. The report indicates that despite Uganda and Tanzania being highly ranked compare to Rwanda, no major reforms were recorded. According to the report, it is only Kenya that recorded reforms in starting a business and trading across borders. Surely, the WB report tells a lot about Rwanda. What it implies is simple. That with a visionary leadership, a country regardless its turbulent history, it can develop very fast thus improving the standards of living of people. What most of African leaders do is build themselves castles and steal their countries funds. In Rwanda, we shall recall that five years ago for instance, the country has witnessed an exceptional moment in the history. A free democratic process started after the Genocide has given Rwandans the leadership they deserve and choose. Given Rwanda’s history, one can state confidently that a lot has been achieved at all levels. Without visionary leadership, everything becomes an illusion and a receding mirage. Contact: ssuna2000@yahoo.co.uk