President Paul Kagame asserted that foreign aid creates dependency and is often weaponized to control developing nations. In an interview, he underscored Rwanda’s efforts to reduce this reliance through domestic solutions while facing criticisms and sanctions from Western countries. Kagame emphasized that aid should be managed to prevent it from becoming a liability and expressed the need for autonomy in governance.
President Paul Kagame of Rwanda articulated concerns regarding foreign aid, describing it as a tool that creates dependency and enables control over recipient nations. In his recent interview with American social media host Mario Nawfal, Kagame addressed multiple issues, including the crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the challenges posed by external aid to developing countries.
Kagame emphasized that, while Rwanda acknowledges the necessity of aid, the nation seeks to utilize it to bolster its capacities for long-term independence. He stated, “Aid creates dependency. Whoever gives you aid, controls your life,” highlighting that it can often be weaponized to steer nations toward predetermined paths, where donors may threaten to withdraw assistance as a means to enforce compliance.
Rwanda has strategically aimed to reduce its reliance on foreign aid by fostering local solutions, enhancing domestic revenue generation, and attracting investments. Kagame remarked that, if not managed carefully, aid could become a liability. He mentioned, “We need it, we can show where we need it but we also work out how to get out of it,” reflecting Rwanda’s vision for self-sufficiency despite facing criticisms for its attempts to diminish aid dependence.
Kagame clarified that Rwanda does not oppose development aid categorically, but rather critiques its inherent nature which fosters dependency. He remarked, “whoever gives you aid controls your life,” further asserting that such dynamics lead to misconceptions about Rwandan governance, resulting in accusations of arrogance and dictatorial tendencies.
This discussion emerges amidst sanctions imposed by Western nations, including the freezing of aid due to allegations regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC conflict. Kagame maintains that withholding financial support will not rectify the governance issues in the DRC or improve the situation for affected populations.
In conclusion, President Paul Kagame’s remarks on the implications of foreign aid underscore a critical perspective on dependency and control. While acknowledging the short-term necessity for aid, Rwanda is actively pursuing self-reliance through domestic initiatives. Kagame’s views reflect a broader debate on the effectiveness and impact of foreign assistance in fostering sustainable development in emerging economies.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
