“Legacy Starts at Home,” Says First Lady

First Lady Jeannette Kagame has called on young Rwandans to take responsibility for shaping the nation’s future, stressing that building a lasting legacy starts with taking responsibility in their homes.

She said on Sunday, August 31, during the Young Leaders Prayer Breakfast at Kigali Convention Centre, an event organised by the Rwanda Leaders Fellowship (RLF) and attended by over 600 participants, including leaders from government, faith-based organisations, the private sector, and civil society.

The First Lady noted that modern society faces rising selfishness and indifference, trends that undermine family values, the sanctity of marriage, and the spirit of selflessness.

“Young people, in particular, have been entrusted with a great responsibility: to build a lasting legacy for future generations. This responsibility begins in our homes,” she said.

She emphasised that many marriages fail because couples invest more in planning elaborate weddings than in preparing for a strong union.

"You should understand that building a home is more important than spending all your resources on a wedding," she said. "Couples need to ask themselves important questions: Are we getting married out of genuine love, or because of societal and family pressure? Are we marrying because of a pregnancy? Is it driven by financial expectations? We must deeply reflect on the true reasons for marriage."

She also urged young leaders to safeguard the achievements of their elders.

"Some people still think Rwanda’s progress is God’s miracles, but God also helps those who help themselves," she said.

“Build on their legacy and fulfill your responsibilities, both in your families and in your workplaces, so that you can realise the dreams of those who came before you.”

On parental responsibility, she added that a parent’s most valuable legacy is not just words or education, but their life, example, and guidance nurtured with wisdom, patience, and love.

“Let us continue to build wholesome homes, so that Rwanda will be wholesome too. Let us pass down to our children the heritage of love and sacrifice, for in that heritage lies the accomplishment of a future we are all determined to attain,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of shared responsibility between spouses, emphasising the need for mutual understanding, support, and open communication in navigating the challenges of parenting and family life.

Didier Habimana, a preacher, noted that families are the foundation of a strong and prosperous nation.

Referring to 1 Timothy 5:8, Habimana said: “Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”

He also cited Proverbs 13:22, saying that a good inheritance is not only about money, houses, or land, but also about leaving behind a secure and strong family. "That is the greatest legacy you can pass on to your loved ones.”