On behalf of the people of Kigali, it is an honour to welcome you all to Kigali city centennial celebrations. 2007 is a very special year for us. We are celebrating 100 years since Richard Kandt set up an administrative residence on behalf of the German colonial office in Kigali in 1907.

Kigali city has had a history checkered with tragedy and triumph but like the rest of the country has risen from the gutters of despair and is now walking along the path of optimism and development. This year the city is engaged in a number of celebratory activities. These are geared towards galvanizing the city and its people around a common purpose of modernization and responsibility.

Kigali City is now home to over one million multi cultured and multi national residents who are actively involved in the manufacturing and service industry Kigali City has always been a community built by people looking confidently to the future. I expect that in the second century, we’ll continue to build a sustainable future based modernization and responsibility. At the end of our second century, the people will have another hundred years of accomplishment to celebrate.

I believe the best way to predict the future is to invent. I hope you can join us invent the future of this city and embrace the opportunity to call Kigali home. A lot has been done and a lot needs to be done if we are to transform Kigali into a 21st century city offering first class services and facilities in a clean and green environment.

Come let’s celebrate a new beginning.

Dr. Aisa Kirabo Kacyira

Mayor of Kigali City