President Kagame of Rwanda argues that foreign aid has been weaponized and creates dependency, emphasizing the need for nations to reduce reliance on external support. In an interview, he highlighted Rwanda’s efforts to promote self-sufficiency through domestic investments while acknowledging the criticisms faced for his government’s long-term vision of independence from aid. He posited that freezing aid would not resolve the issues in DR Congo, emphasizing a need for strategic aid management.
President Paul Kagame has expressed concerns about the nature of foreign aid, stating it has become a means of control that fosters dependency in developing countries. In an interview with American blogger Mario Nawfal, Kagame discussed various issues including the crisis in DR Congo and the adverse effects of reliance on foreign aid. He acknowledged that while aid is appreciated, it should be used strategically to help countries gradually reduce their dependency on it.
Kagame asserted, “Aid creates dependency. Whoever gives you aid controls your life.” He highlighted that foreign aid is often politically weaponized, used as leverage to dictate the actions of the recipient countries. The Rwandan government has made concerted efforts to minimize reliance on external support by enhancing domestic funding and attracting investments.
Kagame emphasized that aid, if not managed wisely, could become a liability rather than an asset for nations. Despite facing criticism for its ambitions to wean off aid, he clarified that Rwanda is not against foreign assistance per se but opposes the dependency it cultivates. He remarked, “It’s not that we don’t want aid for the sake of not wanting it; we are saying aid creates dependency.”
This commentary comes in light of sanctions imposed by Western nations on Rwanda, including the freezing of aid due to alleged involvement in the escalating conflict in DR Congo. Kagame asserted that such financial measures would not effectively address the governance issues in DR Congo nor improve the dire situations faced by the affected populations.
President Kagame’s remarks underline the critical discourse on foreign aid’s implications for developing nations, highlighting its potential to create dependency and control. His advocacy for self-reliance and strategic management of aid reflects Rwanda’s commitment to generating sustainable development through domestic solutions. As Rwanda navigates international relations amidst sanctions, the dialogue on aid dependency remains crucial for future policymaking and international partnerships.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
