Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva, on Tuesday, August 12, delivered his first address to Parliament, outlining the government’s development priorities under the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which will guide the country’s progress until 2029.
Under the NST2, the government expects the real gross domestic product (GDP) to grow at an average annual rate of 9.3% between 2024 and 2029, with per capita income projected to increase from $1,040 in 2023 to $1,369 by 2029.
Appointed on July 25, Nsengiyumva takes over from Édouard Ngirente with a pledge to accelerate socio-economic transformation. Speaking before a joint session of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, he said: “We are committed to building a knowledge-based economy, improving citizens’ welfare, and ensuring accountability in all public institutions.”
The Prime Minister stressed that NST2 focuses on three pillars: economic growth and job creation, social transformation, and good governance. He emphasised that agriculture modernisation, infrastructure development, digital innovation, and youth employment will be key drivers.
“We will strengthen public service delivery, expand access to quality education and healthcare, and safeguard our environment for future generations,” Nsengiyumva added. “Special attention will be given to empowering women and young people as they are the backbone of our nation’s future.”
In line with constitutional requirements, the Prime Minister must present the government’s programme to Parliament at least three times annually. Today’s session marked his first direct engagement with lawmakers, setting the stage for cooperation between the executive and legislative branches.
Parliamentarians welcomed his proposals, urging timely and measurable implementation. “Plans are only as strong as their results,” one lawmaker noted, calling for transparent monitoring of progress.
Pichou Byiringiro / The Kaminuza Star