Participants of Qatar Leadership Centre’s (QLC) Government Leadership Program 2 (GLP2) have successfully concluded a week-long educational trip to Rwanda, where they explored the country’s governance models, leadership strategies, and innovative development practices.

The program was carefully designed by QLC to give participants first-hand exposure to how visionary leadership shapes national progress. In Rwanda, they studied how leadership has guided the country’s transformation since the 1990s, fostering unity, building resilient institutions, and driving rapid economic growth. The trip also highlighted how Rwanda empowers communities at the grassroots level, embraces innovation, and adapts global trends to its local context.

A highlight of the trip was a discussion with H.E. President Paul Kagame, who shared Rwanda’s vision for unity, prosperity, and inclusive growth. He emphasized: “The number one thing in the vision was to bring back the country together. The vision of a united country. It doesn’t matter whose background or what background people have—you belong to this country. Even for people from outside, when they are here, as long as they obey the laws of the country, we count them as part of that growth that leads us to fulfill our vision. So unity, being together, overcoming our past and shaping our future was important.

Second, the vision must entail prosperity. How do our people leave behind the poverty? You have left this division, but if you are not divided, but you stay poor, what does it help? We want our country, our people, to grow and develop the nation.”

Reflecting on the program, Mr. Abdulla Mohammed Khalifa Albinali, General Manager, stated:
“This educational visit to the Republic of Rwanda reflects Qatar Leadership Centre’s commitment to providing participants with enriching experiences that highlight leading international models. The meeting with H.E. President Paul Kagame and the visits to Rwandan institutions offered invaluable lessons on leadership and institutional reform from a global perspective. Such experiences strengthen the capabilities of our national cadres and enhance their readiness to address future challenges.”

Over the course of the week, the delegation engaged with senior officials, leading experts, and institutions across multiple sectors. Their program included visits to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where they paid tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and reflected on Rwanda’s history and nation-building journey. Additional visits included the Central Bank of Rwanda, the Office of the Ombudsman, and other key institutions, offering participants a comprehensive perspective on governance, accountability, and national development.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Maryam Yousef Almalki, a student at QLC, said, “Our educational trip to Rwanda was an inspiring experience, where we saw the nation’s remarkable progress and efficient governance. We were honored to meet H.E. the President of Rwanda, who shared insightful advice on leadership and investing in people. Grateful thanks to the Embassies of Rwanda and Qatar for their support, and to Qatar Leadership Centre, its leadership and coordinators, for their efforts that made this journey a success.”

“Visits like this remind us that progress is not achieved in isolation. By exchanging knowledge and experiences, we strengthen our nations and empower our people.” said Mr. Igor Marara, Ambassador of Rwanda in Qatar. 

This trip is another testament to the growing relationship between Rwanda and Qatar, particularly in knowledge exchange, leadership development, and fostering sustainable growth through international cooperation.