Prime Minister Dr Justin Nsengiyumva has commended the Catholic Church in Rwanda for its significant role in advancing the country’s social and economic development, particularly through the establishment of schools and health facilities that have transformed the lives of citizens.
He delivered the remarks on Saturday, 6 December 2025, during celebrations held at Amahoro Stadium to mark the 125th anniversary of the arrival of the Catholic gospel in Rwanda and the Jubilee of the 2025th year of human redemption.
The colourful event brought together thousands of Christians, senior government officials, and guests from neighbouring countries and beyond.
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva described the day as both historic and an opportunity to reflect on the Catholic Church’s long-standing contribution to Rwanda’s progress.
“This joyful day is an important moment for us to look back and reflect on a long journey of faith, love, and service that has defined the Catholic Church in Rwanda,” he said. “For 125 years, the Church has been an outstanding partner in our country’s development.”
He noted that the Church’s impact is visible in the wellbeing of Rwandans, especially in education, healthcare, unity and reconciliation, and the strengthening of family values.
In the education sector, he highlighted that the Catholic church built schools and training centres that have helped shape a generation of Rwandans with strong values, knowledge, and skills. In healthcare, Catholic clinics and hospitals have remained pillars of compassion and care—serving the vulnerable and restoring hope for countless patients.
The Prime Minister also praised the Church’s role in rebuilding unity among Rwandans after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
“In communities and families, the Church has been a source of collaboration, supporting young people, assisting families, and standing with the most vulnerable,” he said. “We recognise its contribution to reconciliation and healing from the wounds caused by the Genocide. This progress was made possible by courage and love.”
He noted that the Church’s 125-year legacy is so extensive “that one would spend an entire day listing its achievements,” adding that the Government and all Rwandans will always be grateful.
Dr Nsengiyumva emphasised the need for continued partnership in building a confident, self-reliant Rwandan citizen. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working closely with the Church to ensure inclusive education where no child is left behind.
He urged Christian families to reflect on their responsibilities in national development.
“Allow me to emphasise an important message that supports every family in achieving wellbeing and building a better future,” he said. “These are responsibilities shared between the Government and faith-based organisations such as the Catholic Church.”
He called on churches to strengthen efforts in promoting children’s education, stressing that “a child who studies is the foundation of a strong nation; when children do not study, the future is put at risk.”
The Prime Minister also encouraged Christians and all Rwandans to uphold hygiene and health.
“We call upon all churches to continue promoting good health and hygiene,” he said. “Cleanliness is a pillar of a healthy life. When our surroundings and our bodies are clean, we prevent diseases and ensure safety in our daily lives.”
He added that a good Christian “strives for unity and serves as a positive example in all they do.”
According to the Catholic Church, its development work over the years includes the construction of 1,758 primary schools, 1,052 secondary schools, six universities, 107 health centres, 10 hospitals, and 263 early childhood development centres.
Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, thanked God for the Church’s journey and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity, reconciliation, and combating genocide ideology.
“These are blessings we thank God for and pray that they continue,” Cardinal Kambanda said. “All these efforts go hand in hand with supporting unity and reconciliation, and fighting genocide ideology. Our Justice and Peace Commission continues to work with government institutions and Rwandans to build the country along this path.”
