Kigali, Rwanda – Earth Focus Network is proud to be represented at the inaugural Africa Mindset Reset Forum, taking place on August 25–26, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre. Our team member, Bigirimana Feston, attended the first day of this historic gathering, joining nearly 1,000 African leaders, thinkers, and changemakers convened by the African School of Governance (ASG).

Key Takeaways from Day 1

The forum’s theme, “From Pan-Africanism to Meta-Africanism,” set the stage for powerful discussions on Africa’s transformation. Bigirimana Feston shared the following insights from the day’s sessions:

1. Having a Clear Cause, Commitment, and Passion

One of the key messages resonating throughout the day was the importance of having a clear cause, unwavering commitment, and deep passion to endure all obstacles encountered on the path to success. This mindset is essential for African leaders and changemakers who are working to build a prosperous and self-reliant continent.

2. Loving Africa and Knowing Our History

A powerful call was made to love Africa and know our history. Understanding where we come from is critical to shaping where we are going. As one speaker eloquently stated:

“We are the parents of Africa because the Africa we want is not yet born.”

This statement underscored the responsibility of current generations to build a foundation for future generations—to create the Africa that our children and grandchildren will inherit.

3. Self-Reliance Through Understanding Our Resources

H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, strengthened the conversation on self-reliance. He emphasized the importance of understanding the resources we have and cultivating positive attitudes and behaviours that drive us toward success. He noted that self-reliance begins with a mindset shift—recognizing the potential within our own continent and leveraging it for transformation.

4. Governance and Leadership as the Biggest Infrastructure

President Kagame also highlighted that the biggest infrastructure we can build is governance and leadership skills. He noted that this is being done in a strategic way through the African School of Governance (ASG) , which is equipping a new generation of African leaders with the skills and mindsets needed to drive the continent’s transformation.

Networking and Connections

During the event, Earth Focus Network had the privilege of meeting Hon. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda. It was an exciting moment to connect with him and discuss the role of networking and collaboration in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

Earth Focus Network was also able to meet new people in the room, many of whom expressed excitement about joining our network. As a unified digital ecosystem connecting organizations, businesses, individuals, and funders committed to environmental protection and sustainability, we are thrilled to welcome new members who share our vision for a regenerative Africa.

Looking Forward to Day 2

We look forward to the second day of the forum, where we anticipate even more insightful discussions and opportunities to build partnerships that will drive Africa’s sustainable development.

Join Earth Focus Network

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