Paul Kagame Takes Oath for Fourth Term as Rwanda's President

Tags: International News

On August 11, 2024, Paul Kagame began his fourth term as President of Rwanda. Kagame won the election with more than 99% of the vote.

An Overview of the News

• The inauguration ceremony took place in a crowded stadium in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Many prominent African leaders attended the ceremony.

Kagame’s Political Background

• Kagame has been in power since shortly after the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.

• He officially became President in 2000.

• Kagame first took on a leadership role after the genocide.

Kagame’s Leadership and Contributions

• Kagame is credited with improving Rwanda’s economy and infrastructure.

• Kagame is a strong supporter of gender equality.

• Rwanda has the highest percentage of women in its parliament of any country in the world.

The Rwandan Genocide (1994)

• Historical Background:

  • The Rwandan Genocide occurred from April to July 1994.

  • Approximately 800,000 people, mostly Tutsis, were killed by Hutu extremists.

  • The genocide lasted about 100 days.

• International Response:

  • The international community, including the United Nations, failed to take strong action to stop the violence.

• Post-Genocide Recovery:

  • Rwanda has made a remarkable recovery since the genocide.

  • The country is often seen as a model for reconciliation.

About Rwanda

• Capital - Kigali

• Official Languages - Kinyarwanda, French, English, Swahili

• Currency - Rwandan Franc

• Prime Minister - Édouard Ngirente