The Head of State made the remarks during an interview with CNN journalist Eleni Giokos, which opened the Africa CEO Forum.
More than 2,800 participants attended the forum, including heads of state and leaders of major companies from across Africa and beyond. Representatives from 69 countries took part in the event.
Six African presidents attended the forum, including Kagame of Rwanda, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, Mamadi Doumbouya and Daniel Chapo.
President Kagame said the current global challenges should remind Africa of its role and contribution to the world. He noted that for years Africa has been told what to do by others, but what matters now is taking action on its own priorities.
“We need to rely on the opportunities we have. Why is Africa always left behind?” Kagame asked.
He pointed out that Africa possesses most of the critical minerals needed for technologies such as batteries, yet powerful countries are competing to control them while the continent gains little benefit.
“When you look at the minerals being discussed globally, most of them are in Africa. Powerful countries are fighting over them, but Africa remains silent or loses nearly everything to those who know how to use them,” he said.
Kagame stressed that Africa has enormous opportunities but continues to struggle because it often fails to act collectively.
“We need to come together and do something. We are losing a lot because we are not doing what we should be doing,” he added.
Asked about sanctions and pressure placed on African countries, Kagame said such measures are not limited to Rwanda and are usually based on the interests of powerful nations.
“Sanctions are imposed depending on who offers less or more. They benefit those who provide greater interests. If someone knows they will gain more from a certain place, they will protect it even when those people are in the wrong,” he said.
Kagame argued that these actions resemble old colonial practices where rulers would hand territories to others to govern for their own benefit.
“That is what is happening today. Someone is told to go and do whatever they want in a certain region. That is how Africa is managed,” he said.
He also criticized powerful nations for speaking about democracy and human rights while simultaneously exploiting Africa’s resources.
“These powerful countries come here teaching people about human rights and democracy with one hand, while taking away people’s wealth with the other. That is why Africa must sometimes stand up for its dignity,” Kagame said.
He called on Africans to value themselves and have the courage to reject unfair treatment.
Kagame added that the pressure Africa faces should serve as a wake-up call for the continent to assess its strengths and take the necessary steps to secure its rightful place in the world.
