District, provincial, and City of Kigali leaders have concluded a four-day retreat in Gako, Bugesera District, aimed at enhancing citizen-centered governance and promoting local development. The retreat, organized by the Ministry of Local Government, provided an opportunity for leaders to reflect on their responsibilities and evaluate progress made in delivering services that directly impact citizens’ welfare.
This year’s discussions carried special significance as they coincided with the 25th anniversary of Rwanda’s decentralization policy — a key governance reform introduced to bring leadership closer to the people and strengthen accountability at all administrative levels. Participants discussed strategies to improve coordination between local and national institutions, accelerate service delivery, and ensure that governance remains responsive to citizens’ needs.
Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana emphasized that the retreat sought to reinforce leaders’ understanding of their mandate to prioritize citizens in all decision-making processes. He urged them to uphold values of transparency, integrity, and efficiency in public service.
The Gako retreat concluded with renewed commitments from local leaders to strengthen community engagement, drive inclusive development, and continue building a governance model that reflects Rwanda’s vision of putting citizens at the heart of transformation.
