President Paul Kagame has urged countries to strengthen investment and partnerships, saying greater access to capital and skills development can create employment opportunities for young people and accelerate economic growth.

President Kagame made the remarks in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, during a discussion with Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mulipora Anarosa Ale Molio’o, and other leaders, following the official opening of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

He emphasised that investing in young people is essential to addressing unemployment, particularly in Africa, where many young people need practical skills and opportunities to participate in economic development.

Kagame said one of the major barriers to investment in developing countries is the mindset surrounding risk, arguing that governments and investors should focus on building partnerships and combining financial resources rather than allowing concerns about investment risks to discourage them.

He stressed that investment risks exist everywhere, but collaboration and effective financial partnerships can help reduce potential losses and encourage more investment.

Samoa’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio’o, also highlighted the importance of Commonwealth countries making better use of their available resources to improve the future of their citizens.

The 28th CHOGM is taking place from November 1 to 4, 2026, under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth.”

The meeting has brought together leaders from around 30 countries, alongside ministers, business representatives, civil society organisations and young people.

President Kagame is attending alongside Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, King Charles III, Queen Camilla and Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening trade among Commonwealth member states, attracting investment and building partnerships that support sustainable economic development.

The programme includes high-level discussions, forums, leaders’ retreats and engagements with the private sector.

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