President Kagame calls for adequate fiscal space for Africa to stablise from COVID-19 crisis

Earlier this Thursday, President Paul Kagame attended the virtual meeting bringing together the African Union Bureau, Chairs of Regional Economic Communities and AU Special envoys for a discussion on continued collaboration towards ending COVID-19 pandemic.

In his statement, President Kagame, who is also the current Chairperson of the East African Community noted that the block is working together to establish procedures to facilitate the flow of trade, while also protecting public health. This includes the expanded use of digital tools and working to harmonise testing guidelines.

The head of state noted that the East African region still has problems to address, which include harmonisation and understanding of actions we to be taken to control the spread of COVID-19, but, he said they will keep working at it.

President Kagame said that the region regret the untimely passing of the President of the Republic of Burundi, Peter Nkurunziza, and extend our condolences to his family and the people of Burundi.

Kagame also commended the excellent work of six Special Envoys, saying that there could not be more capable individuals to represent the African continent on this very complicated matter.

He said that providing adequate fiscal space to Africa does not only benefit Africa. It should be seen as part of the overall effort to stabilise the global economy.

The head of state also emphasised that the urgency of creating fiscal space must not come at the expense of existing and new development programs, which are essential to sustain progress toward Agenda 2063, including resilient health systems.

President Kagame commended the progress made by the Africa Medical Supplies Platform, led by Zimbabwean businessman Strive Masiyiwa. 

He said that this will help Africa to procure medical supplies in a timely manner and at more affordable prices.