President Paul Kagame has rubbished claims by United Nations that Rwanda has been supporting an armed rebellion in Burundi, saying Bujumbura must take blame for the country’s instability.
“The most helpful thing would be for Burundi to accept the problems as their own and for the people who write the reports to be mobilized to address problems like the burden of Burundi refugees in Rwanda and elsewhere in the region rather than exacerbating situations,” said Kagame at a news conference in Kigali on Friday.
The U.N. Security Council was by last night expected to debate a report which indicated that Rwanda provided training, money and logistics early this year for insurgents fighting the government of Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza.
However, speaking at the conclusion of the 26th World Economic Forum, President Kagame said the troubles of Burundi should not be perceived as if they do not originate from the country.
The country has been struggling with an internal conflict that has left a trail of bloodshed and destruction after President Nkurunziza chose to stand for a third term in office at the end of his mandatory two terms.
On improved relations with Tanzania, President Kagame said it was a good thing that President Magufuli had come and “reversed the situation” because the misunderstandings that happened should not have occurred in the first place.
Tension was high during President Jakaya Kikwete’s reign as he was seen as a quiet supporter of the Rwanda genocidal militia, FDLR in DRC.
Kagame said what should be is that Rwanda and Tanzania should collaborate in various areas for mutual benefits.
President Kagame also addressed issues like the upcoming AU Summit which will take place in Rwanda, saying that Rwanda was ready to host the Summit, having gained experience and confidence from hosting the World Economic Forum and other important global events before it.
Concerning African economies, President Kagame stated that the African continent was vulnerable to economic shocks because of failure to insulate economies with measures like intra-Africa trade, which would unlock the continent’s potential.