Fifteen years ago, when rwanda came to its knees little did we know we would be where we are now. It is a moment that evokes sorrow, grief an pain to many Rwandans. Fifteen years later, Government has focused on reconciliation, reconstruction, and regional stability. This combination has enabled peace and economic revival. Political and economic reforms attracted support from the donor group, enabled reconstruction and increased social services while regional stability has been important for Rwanda’s trade and economic links with the rest of the region. Rwanda’s economy grew annually by 10% between 1995 and 2002, due to reconstruction activity and structural reforms. By May 2008, food production had increased by 14% and the country’s GDP grew by 6%. An increase in the core sectors of tea and coffee production led to boost in export earnings to US$ 67 million in 2007. In 2009 Coffee exports alone are anticipated to hit US$ 75 million. The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank approved a new Country Strategy Paper (CSP) 2008-2011 for Rwanda on 6 November 2008. The CSP aims to support Government’s Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) through two pillars; economic infrastructure and competitiveness and enterprise development. All this is attributed to good leadership and competent workers working reliably to accomplish the national agenda. But as we recognize the fabulous triumphs for the past years, there is still a lot to do to lift the country out of poverty, illiteracy, corruption and genocide ideology;things that are still obstructing development. All goals can be achieved when there are capable workers who love to see positive changes as days pass by. In this regard, the Ministry of Public Service and Labour (MOFOTRA) mid-last month started the reform implementation action plan in both central and local government organs to reinforce the national labour standards and institutionalize an efficient and modern public service management framework. The reforms expected to end on October 14th will see the creation of over 3,500 new posts most of which are at the local level. To those who will be left to continue serving and those new faces brought in by the reform, the target should be one; to perform at their best and effectively contribute to improving the lives of the Rwandan population. Like President Kagame said “we will not forget the Genocide, but we will not be defined by it either.” abossie07@yahoo.com
