Seven years ago, the Government of Rwanda began the difficult task of rebuilding the country. In 1994, no schools, hospitals, factories and government departments were functioning. Public utilities like telephones, electricity and water were also not functioning. There was total displacement of the population, both internally and externally. There was no civil service and the government's administrative capacity had collapsed. Civil servants had either been killed during the genocide or had fled the country. Survivors of genocide were still scattered all over the country and traumatized. Genocide had further polarised the Rwandan society.

The Government of National Unity and the Rwandan people, with some support from the International community, have registered progress in the difficult process of moving from emergency to long-term development.

The first challenge that the government faced was to stabilize the country and create conditions that would enable the whole population to enjoy peace and security.

About three-and-a half million Rwandan refugees have been repatriated and resettled. this is a phenomenal repatriation record in world refugee history. The process of reintegration of refugees and members of the former government army (Ex-FAR) has further promoted reconciliation. About 15,000 elements of ex-FAR have been integrated into the Rwandan National Army, the RPA, at various command levels, as well as within the rank and file.

In promoting reconciliation, a Unity and Reconciliation Commission was established to consolidate the government policy of redressing the legacy of divisive politics that has been a prominent feature of Rwanda for many decades. The commission continues to raise public awareness through civic education initiatives (Ingando). Furthermore, there has been extensive dialog, which, took place under the leadership of the President of Rwanda, touched on unity and reconciliation, justice, democratization, security and economy.

The Government of national Unity has made progress in building the justice system from scratch. Following the enactment of the Genocide Law, trials have taken place to bring to justice the genocide suspects. So far, (...) have been convicted and (...) acquitted. Currently, there are over 120,000 genocide suspects in overcrowded prisons. About 12 million Rwanda francs are spent annually on looking after these prisoners. To deal with this caseload expeditiously, the government has initiated a participatory form of justice (GACACA) that draws from the experience of traditional pre-colonial Rwandan society. This was operational by the end of the year 2000.

Through a Genocide Survivors Fund, the government provides support in education, shelter, health, and income-generating activities to the most vulnerable amongst the survivors. About 5% of government revenue collected each year(approximately 4 billion Rwanda francs) is contributed to this fund. Donations from the public or private sector, as well as from the international community are welcome.

A Human Rights Commission has been established to promote the rule of law and respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.

On the political front, the Government of National Unity has made progress in maintaining the inclusiveness of the broad-based government as an indispensable component of the new political dispensation. A policy of decentralisation has been initiated to involve people in grassroots communities in decision-making. This will enhance their participation in activities to transform their poor conditions. Local elections have already taken place at the cell and sector levels. Elections at the commune and province levels took place at the end of the year 2000.

A Legal and Constitutional Commission has been established to consult all Rwandan citizens on what kind of Constitution Rwanda should have at the end of the transition period.

Transparency and accountability within government institutions have been identified and promoted as critical ingredients necessary for effective and efficient government. To that effect, a number of institutions have been established, namely the National Examinations Board, the National Tender Board, the Auditor General's Office and the Rwanda Revenue Authority. In addition, government will further require public officials to declare their assets in accordance with a National Leadership Code of Conduct.

On December 31st 2001, Rwanda unveiled the new National Flag, the Coat of Arms and the National Anthem.

Economic recovery has been consistent since 1994 when real GDP declined by 50% and inflation stood at 65%.

Security has been restored to all the 12 administrative provinces of Rwanda. Undoubtedly, this is a peace dividend from Rwanda's involvement in the DRC.

Rwanda has been welcomed to join the East African Cooperation (EAC), in pursuit of greater cooperation and economic integration. Rwanda is also an active member of the Common Market for East and Southern Africa (COMESA).