Chicago, 10 June 2011
President Kagame last night met with leading Chicago traders, entrepreneurs and political figures at a dinner gala hosted by Mr. Joe Ritchie, himself a veteran Chicago entrepreneur. Political figures at the dinner included U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert and Rep. Bobby Rush from Chicago. The aim of the dinner meeting was to showcase Rwanda’s pro-business policy and the country’s potential for business deals and social development.
Speaking during the dinner, President Kagame told the guests: “I am here to meet with thousands of Rwandans who have come from different parts of the United States and Canada, and others who have travelled from Rwanda to be with us on Rwanda Day. The whole idea is to bring Rwanda to them because most of them have lived here for many years although they have remained connected to Rwanda. We want to discuss with them what is happening in Rwanda and how some of the things they are doing have contributed to Rwanda’s development in ways they might not be aware of”.
Mr. Joe Richie said that after hearing from President Kagame, “all the guests seemed to agree that there is not any other place on the planet with opportunities like this”. At the end of the dinner, Participants had the opportunity to meet and interact with Rwandan officials and continue with discussions.
Meanwhile, Rwanda Day was officially opened on Friday by Minister Louise Mushikiwabo after which banks and other Rwanda businesses exhibited their activities. After the Minister’s opening remarks, discussions kicked off with panels covering topics ranging from youth to business and entrepreneurship. Panelists included John Gara of RDB, Robert Bayingana and Jack Kayonga of BRD.