Rwanda, Germany mark 30-year partnership

Top officials from the government and a delegation from Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany, Friday held an event to mark 30 years of relations between the two countries.The delegation left the country yesterday after a week’s visit. Prime Minister, Dr Pierre Damien Habumuremyi and Local Government Minister, James Musoni, were among officials who attended the event that took place at Lemigo Hotel.In his speech, Habumuremyi highlighted the country’s achievements in supporting its citizens and development as a whole and appreciated the role played by Rhineland-Palatinate in the development process.“This partnership has been concrete and has created value to the government and contributed to constant engagement with local communities given the various development projects that were initiated,” said Habumuremyi.The Premier added that the government was committed and would continue working to strengthen the cooperation. He called on ministries and other development partners to effectively utilize what had been achieved in promoting and supporting development activities. Musoni said that respect and understanding; the basis of the partnership, had enabled both parties to work together, arguing that the partnership has positively helped the youth and Rwandans in general. He also pointed out that his ministry shared a lot and has more to share given the need for the two to continue working together. Roger Lewentz, Minister for Interior of the Rhineland-Palatinate, re-affirmed their commitment to continue supporting Rwanda through job creation to improve the welfare of the citizens.“We plan to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) next year that will be based on coming up with or supporting youth programmes,” Lewentz said. It also plans to invest in solar energy for street lighting, affordable housing technologies, sanitation as well as energy, especially renewable energy, in villages (Imidugudu) settlements and investing in Technical and Vocational education.