The Andrew Young Medal for Capitalism and Social Progress is given to individuals who have contributed in very special ways to the development of dynamic and robust free economies based on socially responsible capitalism.

The Andrew Young School of Policy Studies of Georgia State University takes pleasure in presenting the Andrew Young Medal for Capitalism and Social Progress to:

His Excellency Paul Kagame

President of The Republic of Rwanda

For his inspirational commitment to leadership in bringing peace and hope to all the people of Rwanda and the neighboring African nations. President Kagame’s vision, understanding, character and leadership were forged during one of the most brutal and dehumanizing times in all of human history. His commitment to peace among Rwandans and all people of Africa, his actions of inclusiveness to all groups and peoples, and his achievement in creating institutional and government structures that focus on long term solutions of hope and future tranquility is a model for all.

For his focus on conflict resolution that in his own words is “locally driven and peoples centered and people owned.” Beginning with the determination to deflect evil, to recover from tragedy, and to construct a secure future for all people of Rwanda he was a source of strength and vision in the development of the transitional government of National Unity. That government through participation of all Rwandans endeavored to promote a sense of security and undertake the difficult task of reconciling all their people by shaping government policy and action consistent with the belief that all Rwandans are a common people.

For his commitment to the development of a nation, a constitution, governmental institutions and national leadership that guaranteed the participation of all people. Fundamental to President Kagame’s nation building was the concept that democratization must protect all people from dominance by one group over another, and that power sharing, broad based grassroots level government will benefit all people. A model government and strong institutions prevent corruption, ensure transparency, and welcome participation. By creating a culture of inclusive and democratic policies, Rwanda will have the opportunity to move a nation endowed with enormous natural and human resources from one where people still suffer from hunger, famine, poverty, preventable diseases, and illiteracy to a nation that competes successfully in the world economy.

For his extraordinary achievement in reconciliation and peaceful solutions with and between peoples where differences and inhumane behaviors on one side breed hatred and natural revenge responses on the other. President Kagame is building a nation anchored in the rule of law requiring Rwandans to bring those responsible for genocide to justice. But the process will now be people-based jurisdiction where justice is participatory and allows perpetrators to show remorse, confess, repents and accept appropriate punishment. It involves the community in the process to promote understanding and healing and moves the core of the community’s soul from retribution to justice.

For his understanding that economic development must benefit all people, that investing in people will benefit the productivity and innovation in the national economy and that engaged people are less likely to be involved in conflict. The future of any nation is based on the health, vibrancy and capability of its people. President Kagame is committed to the concept that social progress and economic growth are inseparable. He is engaged in a process that will both restore to every Rwandan the dignity that poverty has denied them and provide the support of education, information and health care that is necessary to create a robust economy and an engaged people.

For his tireless work and leadership in creating regional economic partnerships that support stability and strengthen the economic interests of Rwanda and the surrounding nations. President Kagame’s support and leadership in COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa) is evidence of his understanding that the stability of Rwanda is dependent on the stability of the surrounding nations and that the economic interests of his country are strengthened by strong and formal alliances with other nations in the region and will lead to a stronger economic position in the world economy.

In President Kagame’s words, “We are waging a war against poverty, disease, and ignorance, and it is one that we are determined to win… There is no shortcut to socio-economic development, and building a nation whose watchwords are unity, peace and progress.” We commend you, Mr. President, for your tireless efforts on behalf of all people.