The minister made these remarks as stakeholders gathered to prepare for the 8th YouthConnekt Africa Summit, which is scheduled to take place in Kigali from November 25 to 27, 2026.
Dr. Utumatwishima emphasized that YouthConnekt, an initiative inspired by President Paul Kagame, was created to encourage African youth to become drivers of the continent’s development by finding solutions to their own challenges rather than relying on others or dwelling on the legacy of colonialism.
“The idea of YouthConnekt stems from President Paul Kagame’s broader vision that African youth should be at the forefront of the development we aspire to achieve,” he said.
He explained that Rwanda’s objective for the eighth edition of the summit is to inspire young people to rethink their potential and embrace self-reliance.
“What Rwanda wants to offer young people through this eighth edition is an opportunity to reflect on themselves and move away from the belief that someone else owes them a future,” he added.
The minister urged Rwandan youth to make the most of the opportunities provided by YouthConnekt, noting that many Africans still struggle with a mindset that discourages self-driven solutions and slows progress.
“When things do not go our way—whether among young people, business leaders, policymakers, or Africans in general—instead of examining our own role and responsibilities, we often look to colonial history and conclude that someone else has wronged us,” he said.
“Sometimes, people even suggest that God is responsible for their circumstances, but that is not the case. This year, we want young people to lead conversations and ideas across all sectors, while taking responsibility for shaping their own future rather than blaming others.”
Meanwhile, Yann Gwet, Chief Executive Officer of YouthConnekt Africa, and Dr. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, expressed strong support for empowering young people and giving them a greater voice in addressing the challenges they face today.
“Young people are confronted with numerous challenges, and leaders need to come together to find lasting solutions,” Gwet said. “If these issues are not addressed, the consequences will affect everyone. That is why we say this is the generation being called to action—it is the most important mission facing young people today.”
So far, 39 African countries have confirmed their participation in the 2026 YouthConnekt Africa Summit, highlighting the growing continental commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and leadership.