Catholic Church Challenged to be “voice of conscience”, Promote Ethical Leadership at SECAM Plenary in Rwanda

Dr. Nsengiyumva said that the Rwandese people are ready to continue “building inclusive partnerships with faith-based actors committed to service, equity, and peace.”

Themed “Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation and Peace”, SECAM’s 20th Plenary Assembly seeks to build on what the 19th Plenary Assembly that was held in July 2022 mandated Africa’s Catholic Bishops to accomplish.

Justin Nsengiyumva, Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda. Credit: ACI Africa

In his July 31 address, Rwanda's prime minister who welcomed the delegates at the Assembly on behalf of the country’s president Paul Kagame thanked SECAM for choosing Rwanda to host the Assembly.

He described the gathering in the country as “a sign of solidarity and a powerful message of shared commitment to the values of hope, reconciliation, and peace.” He said that the values “resonate deeply with the history and aspirations of our country.”

More in Africa

South African Catholic Bishop Known for Liturgical Reform at Conference Dies at 76

Read the article

Dr. Nsengiyumva further said that the assembly’s theme is timely and significant for Rwanda and many African countries that are facing insecurity and political instability.

Justin Nsengiyumva, Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda. Credit: ACI Africa

“For Rwanda, and indeed many African nations, this theme echoes the complex but determined journey we have taken to rebuild our country, reconcile our People, and envision a future of dignity and justice,” he said.

He explained how Rwanda has implemented the theme after the 1994 genocide   against the Tutsi, saying, “Rwandans committed to a national transformation grounded in unity, accountability, and healing.”

Dr. Nsengiyumva attributed the progress of Rwanda’s nation transformation to both the efforts of  the  government and  also through active partnerships, with stakeholders, including with faith-based organizations.

Justin Nsengiyumva, Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda. Credit: ACI Africa

“We recognize and value the longstanding contribution of religious institutions, and particularly the Catholic Church, its contribution to our transformational journey is recognized in the history and lives of our country,” he said.

He listed the Catholic Church’s contribution in sectors like education, health, and social cohesion, noting that the impact is felt and very much appreciated.

Rwanda's prime minister also reflected on the broader role of the Church in addressing the pressing challenges facing the continent.

Credit: ACI Africa

(Story continues below)

He said that currently, “the multi-stakeholder responses are contributing to our continent's progress in peacebuilding, equality, youth employment, environment protection and security dimensions.”

Credit: ACI Africa

“Neither governments alone can meet these challenges nor can faith communities address them in isolation,” he said, and added, “What we need is a principled partnership, rooted in integrity, mutual respect, and a common vision for a more just, peaceful, and inclusive Africa.”

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.