Kagame Urges Young Africans to Turn Ideas Into Action
KIGALI, September 3, 2026 — President Paul Kagame has urged young African leaders to move beyond ideas and inspiration and focus on practical action to address the challenges facing their communities and the continent.
Speaking during the Conversation with the President at the Presidential and Youth Town Hall at AFSF2026, Kagame said leadership is ultimately measured by the ability to understand problems, take responsibility and deliver solutions.
“Leaders are there to address problems. It is not enough to think, understand or be inspired—the real test of leadership is what you do with that knowledge and inspiration.”
He encouraged young people to begin by looking at the challenges around them, prioritising those they can influence and taking responsibility for creating change.
“Everybody has the possibility to be a leader. Sometimes we think we have to wait for someone else, but we have to move and do what we can.”
Kagame also emphasized that leadership requires continuous learning, personal growth and a willingness to serve others.
“Think about yourself, learn, grow and serve. Once you get that right, it becomes easier to identify the problems you can take on and make a difference.”
The conversation brought together President Kagame and young African leaders for an intergenerational dialogue on leadership, entrepreneurship and the future of Africa’s food systems.
