Rwandan Prime Minister Highlights the Church’s Role in Rebuilding the Nation at SECAM Assembly

Kigali, July 31, 2025 — Rwanda proudly opened the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), a significant gathering of Catholic bishops, religious leaders, and stakeholders from across Africa. The event, held at the Kigali Convention Center, begins today and aims to foster peace, reconciliation, and sustainable development across the continent.

In his opening remarks, Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, emphasized the vital role that the church has played in Rwanda’s journey of rebuilding after the 1994 genocide. “The church has been a pillar of strength and hope in Rwanda’s reconstruction,” he stated. “It contributed immensely to restoring social cohesion, rebuilding communities, and promoting forgiveness. Today, we celebrate the church’s ongoing commitment to healing our nation.”

“Rwanda’s transformation,” he continued, “is a testament to what faith-driven leadership and spiritual resilience can achieve. The church’s involvement in education, health, and moral guidance has been instrumental in the nation’s recovery, and we look forward to strengthening this partnership to ensure a peaceful future.”

The Prime Minister called on religious leaders across Africa to continue fostering unity and support national reconciliation efforts. “We believe that the church’s moral authority and community presence remain essential in building resilient societies across Africa,” he said. “Our shared goal is a continent where justice, dignity, and peace prevail, driven by faith and collective effort.”