MINAFFET, 30th, December, 2008, Foreign and Cooperation Ministry staff held a   one day Evaluation Retreat aimed at reflecting back on the achievements, challenges and presented workable strategies for realizing the set target for 2009.

MINAFFET, 30th, December, 2008, Foreign and Cooperation Ministry staff held a   one day Evaluation Retreat aimed at reflecting back on the achievements, challenges and presented workable strategies for realizing the set target for 2009.

In her opening remarks, Hon Minister Rose Mary MUSEMINALI reminded the participants about the Ministry’s mission and vehemently called for building synergy between Ministry units, embassies and reduce gaps still existing in the reporting and administrative systems.

“As we critically asses the achievements realized in 2008, we must strengthen the spirit of partnering with other key institutions such Rwanda Development Board, and Ministries so as to get optimum results in 2009.” Madam MUSEMINALI emphasized.

The participants resolved to have focal persons in some government institutions for proper coordination, consistency and systematic follow up of issues especially those of Ministry’s interests.  Directors for all units were called to build capacities of their staff as a way of increasing in-service skills and knowledge.

In the retreat, the Directorate in charge of Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation committed itself to strength Rwanda’s image by focusing on European and African countries with development and success stories Rwanda would emulate. It was highlighted that 2008 was characterized by positive diplomatic trends as demonstrated by constant visits of high profile personalities such as the United States President, business tycoons among others.

The General Directorate in charge of Rwandans in Diaspora vowed to continue luring Rwandans in Diaspora so that they can bring their skills, knowledge and finance in form of remittances into Rwanda.    

Also, the Minister cautioned the staff to desist from malpractices such as favoritism, intrigue, seeking cheap popularity since such vices do not favor development.

It noted that all Consulates attached in different countries should provide monthly reports as one of the strategies to curb information vacuum between the Ministry and the Consulates.

It was agreed that in addition to the existing channels, the Ministry should use Rwanda scholars (researchers, students and teachers) abroad to positively profile Rwanda especially in countries where Rwanda does not have formal representations.

All staff committed not to do business as usual so that the presented targets can been realized in a six (6) month timeline.  

The Evaluation Retreat was also characterized by having a grand feast, presenting gifts and birth day surprise to Hon Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
Communication Unit