The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, urged young people attending the 18th National Children’s Summit to avoid alcohol abuse and drug use so that they can achieve their dreams of improving their lives and contributing to the development of the country.
The Minister delivered this message to 567 children who participated in the 18th National Children’s Summit held at the Parliament of Rwanda.
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Children Described as the Hope of the Nation
She told the children that they are the hope of their families and of the nation as a whole. She encouraged them never to allow anyone to discourage them or make them believe that their dreams are impossible to achieve.
She said, “You are the hope of your families and the hope of our country. Never allow anything or anyone to destroy your dreams.”
Encouragement to Focus on Education and Technology
Minister Uwimana encouraged the children to work hard in their studies and to pay particular attention to developing their digital and technological skills, as technology has become an essential part of today’s world.
She said, “You should dedicate yourselves to your studies and make good use of technology to continue expanding your knowledge.”
Warning Against Drugs and Negative Influences
She also reminded them to avoid distractions and to stay away from drugs, explaining that doing so would help them achieve their goals in life.
She added, “Avoid anything that distracts you, including alcohol abuse, drug use, bad friends who mislead you, and people who deceive children and lead them into harmful behavior.”
Children’s Forum Calls for Greater Protection
The Chairperson of the National Children’s Forum, Isimbi Kelia, thanked the country’s leadership for giving children a voice and requested continued efforts to eliminate issues that threaten children’s well-being, including drug abuse and other harmful practices.
She said, “We ask you to continue preventing violations of children’s rights, including drug abuse, violence against children, family conflicts, and many other challenges.”
Children Urged to Uphold Their Responsibilities
She also encouraged her fellow children to play an active role in Rwanda’s development while remembering their own responsibilities.
She said, “We have the responsibility to respect adults, love school, avoid bad behaviors such as drinking alcohol and using drugs, and uphold Rwandan values.”
Theme Highlights Children’s Role in Development
The Director General of the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), Assumpta Ingabire, said that the summit’s theme, “Tomorrow Is Me,” reminds children that they have an important role to play in the country’s development.
She said, “This theme reminds children that they are valuable and that they should actively contribute to shaping their own future. By doing so, they will benefit themselves, their families, and the country as a whole.”
Background of the National Children’s Summit
The National Children’s Summit was established in 2004 after children requested President Paul Kagame to provide them with a platform where they could exchange ideas and engage in discussions with decision-makers and development partners.
