Source: The New Times
The First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, on Saturday, launched the Rwanda Women Leaders Network (RWLN), to serve as a platform for women in leadership to share experiences and ideas on how to maintain their contribution towards the development of the country.
The body was an idea of the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion and One UN Rwanda with the objective of connecting all women leaders and inspiring younger women.
Speaking at the launch hosted at Kigali Serena Hotel and attracting more than 200 women, Mrs. Kagame said that the country had demonstrated that women are influential in development when given a chance to perform.
"The government has maintained a solid commitment to gender equality and women empowerment. Women have demonstrated that they have the power, wisdom, will and ability to perform their tasks and contribute positively towards promotion of lives of Rwandans," Mrs. Kagame said.
"Let us not be afraid in making decisions that will improve our country and families. This new network will give us the courage and hope to always ensure that women have a shoulder to lean on whenever they need guidance and help."
The First Lady also called on local leaders to watch over the youth particularly in this festive season.
"Many parents get worried about their children's whereabouts during Christmas and the New Year period. Leaders at any level must ensure that alcoholic beverages are not sold to under-age people," she said.
RWLN presented a certificate of merit to the outgoing Chief Justice, Aloysea Cyanzaire, in recognition for the outstanding leadership qualities she demonstrated during her eight-year spell in the highest judicial office.
Cyanzayire said: "As women leaders, we certainly have both strengths and weaknesses which can manifest in the work we do. However, when we work together as a team and help each other in the time of need, the weaknesses of an individual will be covered by the work effort of the team."
"Rwanda's experience has shown that in order to achieve sustainable development, women and men must work collectively and the younger generation must be nurtured and inspired to continue the good work."
The network later launched a website (www.rwandawomenleaders.org) and resolved to meet once every year to celebrate their achievements and commit themselves to new undertakings.