He was addressing youth representatives from Kigali and nearby districts on March 25, 2025, after raising concerns about the potential impact of the sanctions on Rwanda.

Dr. Bizimana clarified that the countries that imposed the sanctions were more focused on the stability of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which they see as a loss. He emphasized that although these countries criticize Rwanda, they are fully aware of the true situation.

He pointed out that many countries impose sanctions primarily for their own national interests, often under the pretext of human rights, while pursuing their own agendas.

The minister highlighted Canada’s position, stating that although Canada has not been traditionally supportive of Rwanda, it imposed sanctions under the guise of protecting Congolese interests.

However, he pointed out that Canada’s real motivation was safeguarding its economic interests in the DRC.

"Canada does not support Rwanda, but it imposed sanctions restricting Canadians from attending conferences in Rwanda and preventing Rwandans from participating in events in Canada," Dr. Bizimana noted, emphasizing Canada’s mining interests in the DRC.

Dr. Bizimana further explained that Western countries with no direct interests in the DRC did not engage in imposing sanctions on Rwanda.

He referenced Luxembourg, which opposed the sanctions, stating that it found no reason to penalize Rwanda, as it saw no fault with the country.

Luxembourg instead highlighted that the real issue was the governance and security situation in the DRC, where armed groups operate unchecked.

The minister also discussed Belgium’s position, explaining that the country’s interest in DRC’s minerals influenced its advocacy for sanctions against Rwanda.

He clarified that these sanctions serving as tools for Western powers to exert their influence, will not have permanent effect.

Dr. Bizimana encouraged the youth to remain resilient and seek solutions within their own country, asserting that Rwanda has the capacity to overcome these sanctions.

“We can thrive without them. If they say we cannot go to the U.S., we will reach a level where we no longer need to go there,” he said.

He urged the youth to focus on unity, hard work, and self-reliance as the path to a prosperous future for Rwanda.

Dr. Bizimana also dismissed the sanctions as misguided, particularly pointing out the threat to confiscate assets of individuals like General (Rtd) James Kabarebe, which they do not have in those countries.

The minister concluded by emphasizing that Rwanda’s strength lies in its unity and continued hard work, ensuring that essential services and development goals are achieved for the benefit of all citizens.

The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, reassured the youth who expressed concerns about the recent sanctions imposed on Rwanda.