Blair in Rwanda to advise Kagame government

Blair was giving unpaid advice to the government, which isseeking to transform the central African nation's economy andimage after the 1994 genocide that killed about 800,000 people.

Former rebel leader Kagame is credited by supporters withrestoring order, achieving healthy economic growth, developingnew sectors such as IT, and running a disciplined government.But critics say his authoritarian style is hampering democracy.

"Tony Blair ... comes to talk with President Kagame on whatrole he can voluntarily play in the development of ourcountry," David Himbara, head of the Rwandan president's policyand strategy unit, told Reuters.

Blair was using his experience to advise the government onissues of policy formulation, coordination of government workand the creation of a think-tank, local officials said.

"He's going to help us think beyond the routine," Himbarasaid. "Do we have the correct policy mix -- how can we bettercoordinate and harmonize government policy, how do we adoptbetter innovations to transform our nation?"

Blair's visit follows trips this month to Rwanda by U.N.Secretary-General Ban ki-Moon and U.S. President George W.Bush. Washington regards Kagame as one of a new generation ofprogressive African leaders.

On his two-day visit, Blair was also to visit Rwanda'sgenocide museum.

(Reporting by Arthur Asiimwe; Editing by Jon Boyle)