Today, thanks to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) through cooperation with Rwanda, the pilgrimage to Kibeho has been significantly improved with smooth tarmac roads.
The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, is designed to enhance global trade routes by investing in infrastructure. However, it's more than just a financial strategy; it's a visionary project to stimulate economic growth and connectivity across Africa, Asia, and Europe.
In Rwanda, the impact of this initiative is visible. One of the most notable projects is the road from Huye to Kibeho, a small town in southern Rwanda renowned for the Virgin Mary's apparitions in the 1980s. This road, once treacherous and riddled with potholes, is now a smooth tarmac route thanks to Chinese investment.
In March 2019, Rwanda embarked on the construction of the Huye-Kibeho-Ndago-Munini and Ndago-Ngoma road, covering 66 kilometers. Completed in 2022 at a cost of over 70 billion Rwandan Francs, the project faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic but has since become a symbol of progress for the region.
Residents of Nyaruguru, particularly those in Kibeho and nearby areas, have experienced immediate benefits. Previously, the journey was grueling, especially during the rainy season when the roads became muddy and nearly impassable. Today, thanks to this new infrastructure, pilgrims can travel to Kibeho easily, and the road has sparked economic growth.
Taxi-moto operator Theogene Ndagijimana from Mata recalls the difficult conditions before the road's construction. 'It was tough to get a passenger going to Huye,' he shared. 'In the rainy season, the road was slippery, and during the dry season, the dust made the journey unbearable.' Now, he says, 'It's easy. Someone can pray all day and be back in Huye by 7 p.m. without worry.'
The new road has also revitalized local businesses. Namukway Molly, a Ugandan restaurant owner in Kibeho, remarked, 'After seeing the progress in Kibeho, we decided to open a restaurant here. We serve mostly Ugandan dishes, and now we have customers from as far as Uganda placing orders on their way to Kigali. The road has made everything easier.'
With the increased number of pilgrims, demand for services like accommodation and food has surged, creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Farmers are also reaping the benefits, as lower transport costs enable them to easily get their produce to bigger towns.
The Bishop of Gikongoro Diocese, Celestin Hakizimana, emphasized the road's role in boosting the number of visitors to Kibeho. 'Before, many, especially the elderly and tourists, were reluctant to make the journey due to poor road conditions. Now, Kibeho is visited not only on major religious days but throughout the year,' he explained. He noted that on Assumption Day alone, over 85,000 people visited the shrine.
Remarkably, the road has also encouraged more foot pilgrimages. 'We have pilgrims who walk all the way from Kigali,' Bishop Hakizimana added. 'They stay overnight in Ruhango and continue the next day, confident in the safety and cleanliness of the road.'
Nyaruguru District Mayor, Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, described the transformative effect of the road. 'Before this road, Kibeho received between 150,000 and 300,000 pilgrims annually. Now, we see over a million visitors each year. The road has also attracted investment in accommodations and businesses.'
China-Rwanda Partnership: More than Just Roads
China's investment in Rwanda's infrastructure extends beyond religious routes. Roads across the country are being improved, unlocking new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment. In Nyaruguru District, the Huye-Kibeho road introduced tarmac infrastructure to many for the first time.
This collaboration between China and Rwanda is part of a broader partnership, which in 2024 marked 52 years of diplomatic relations. Over $300 million in infrastructure projects have been completed in Rwanda, with a focus on building capacity for future independent projects.
For many Rwandans, the Huye-Kibeho road is more than just a road; it is a bridge to a better future. It has improved daily life, enhanced safety, and opened doors to new economic opportunities.
As Rwanda continues its journey of development, the road to Kibeho stands as a testament to progress, cooperation, and hope. Thanks to this partnership, pilgrims can now journey to praise the Lord in safety, transforming what was once a test of endurance into a celebration of progress.
Iradukunda Serge
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/the-road-to-kibeho-from-dust-to-a-renewed-pilgrimage-experience
