Rwandan lawmakers have commended the country’s diaspora for their growing role in national development, highlighting both financial contributions and community engagement initiatives.
Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Gertrude Kazarwa led a delegation to Brazzaville on April 16, where she met with members of the Rwandan community living in the Republic of Congo. She was joined by Senator Evode Uwizeyimana and MP Alice Muzana.
Addressing the diaspora, Kazarwa expressed appreciation for their dedication to Rwanda’s progress and cultural heritage, referring to them as the country’s “sixth province.”
“You remain loyal to Rwanda, defending and promoting it wherever you are,” Kazarwa said. “Though outside our borders, you are a vital part of our unity and development.”
Members of the diaspora outlined their involvement in various social programs, including paying health insurance for vulnerable citizens, contributing to BRD’s “Cana Challenge” to expand clean energy access, and supporting school feeding programs like “Dusangire Lunch.”
The delegation also took time to explain the functions of Rwanda’s Parliament, emphasizing its role in lawmaking, government oversight, and representing the people.
Senator Uwizeyimana and MP Muzana encouraged Rwandans abroad to continue playing an active role in governance and development. They stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between the government and its citizens overseas.
Participants welcomed the outreach, saying it strengthened their connection to home and renewed their commitment to contribute through economic investments, cultural exchange, and ideas that benefit the nation.
The lawmakers’ visit coincided with Kazarwa’s attendance at the 16th Conference of Speakers of Francophone Parliaments, hosted in Brazzaville.
According to the National Bank of Rwanda, remittances from the diaspora reached $502 million in 2024, down slightly from $505 million in 2023. The figure has more than doubled over the past five years — from $274 million in 2020 to $461 million in 2022 — underscoring the diaspora’s increasing impact on Rwanda’s economy.
