Paul Kagame: 'I've told Rwandans it's not just what you think of for yourselves, but what others think of us.'

I've told Rwandans it's not just what you think of for yourselves, but what others think of us.

In his thought-provoking quote, Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, emphasizes the significance of how Rwandans perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others. At its core, the quote implies that the well-being and progress of a nation are not solely determined by its internal self-perception, but also by the external perception of that nation. The quote urges Rwandans to consider how they are perceived globally, as it plays a pivotal role in their development and progress.At first glance, Kagame's quote seems straightforward. It suggests that Rwandans should not be solely concerned with their personal image or self-perception; they must also consider how their actions and behaviors are viewed by the international community. This perspective acknowledges the interconnectedness of nations and the importance of fostering positive relationships with other countries.However, to delve even deeper into this concept, let us introduce the philosophical idea of "the looking-glass self." Coined by sociologist Charles Horton Cooley, the concept of the looking-glass self explores how people develop their self-identity through the perception and feedback of others. It suggests that individuals' understanding of themselves is shaped by how they believe others perceive them. This applies not only to individuals but also to nations as a collective entity.By connecting Kagame's quote to the looking-glass self, we can draw fascinating parallels. Just as individuals shape their self-identity based on how others perceive them, nations form their national identity based on the perceptions and opinions of other nations. Rwanda, for instance, has experienced a tumultuous past marked by the devastating genocide in 1994. The nation's transformation and progress since then have been in part influenced by how the world perceives its efforts towards reconciliation, unity, and development.By considering the perception of others, Rwandans gain an opportunity to fine-tune their national identity and aspire to inspire positive opinions. A favorable global perception can open doors for international collaborations, trade partnerships, and investment opportunities that contribute to the nation's growth and development.However, it is crucial to strike a balance. While external perception is undoubtedly important, it should not supersede the nation's own self-perception and aspirations. A nation must remain true to its values, culture, and vision for its future. The opinions of others should serve as a valuable compass to evaluate progress and identify areas for improvement, rather than dictating or overshadowing the nation's fabric.The quote by Paul Kagame encapsulates a fundamental understanding: our own personal perception is not enough for growth and progress; the way others perceive us significantly impacts our trajectory as individuals and nations. By considering the global perception of Rwanda, its people can gain insights into how they are viewed on the world stage. This information can guide them in their pursuit of development, international partnerships, and ultimately contribute to shaping a positive image of not only Rwanda but also Africa as a whole.Thus, Rwandans can embrace an outward-looking perspective, focusing not only on what they think of themselves but also on how others perceive them. By recognizing the power of perception and empathy, they can foster a stronger connection with the international community, learn from diverse perspectives, and continue to build a prosperous and harmonious nation.