He emphasized that neither governments nor faith-based institutions can address Africa's pressing challenges alone â€" a principled partnership is required, rooted in 'integrity, mutual respect, and a shared vision for justice.'
The Prime Minister made these remarks on July 31, 2025, during the official opening of the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), held in Kigali.
Speaking on behalf of President Paul Kagame, Dr. Nsengiyumva welcomed church leaders and partners from across Africa, calling their presence in Rwanda 'a sign of solidarity and a powerful message of shared commitment to the values of hope, reconciliation, and peace.'
'This theme â€" Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation, and Peace â€" is deeply relevant not only to Rwanda's journey, but to Africa's broader transformation,' he said. 'It echoes the complex but determined path we have taken to rebuild our country after the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.'
He acknowledged the Catholic Church's vital role in Rwanda's post-genocide recovery and social development.
'The Church's contribution to our transformational journey is recognized in the history and lives of our country. In sectors like education, health, and social cohesion, its impact is not only felt â€" it is deeply appreciated,' he said.
Looking beyond Rwanda, Dr. Nsengiyumva challenged SECAM delegates to explore how the Church can continue to play a constructive role in Africa's future, particularly in conflict resolution, youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership.
'Africa is at a crossroads. The wounds of the past are still healing, and new global pressures are emerging,' he said. 'But within these challenges lies a unique opportunity for renewal. The Church in Africa, as a voice of conscience, has a vital role to play in inspiring ethical leadership, promoting dignity, and reinforcing the moral compass of our nations.'
Dr. Nsengiyumva also reaffirmed Rwanda's readiness to work hand-in-hand with religious institutions to build a more just, peaceful, and inclusive society.
'We stand ready, as a government and as a people, to continue building inclusive partnerships with faith-based actors committed to service, equity, and peace.'
The Archinbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda praised the growth of the Catholic Church in Rwanda despite the devastating impact of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He commended Rwanda for prioritizing national unity and reconciliation in the post-genocide era.
Cardinal Kambanda also expressed deep gratitude to President Kagame for his leadership and political will to support unity and reconciliation, highlighting the Church's own contribution to this journey.
He added that Rwanda serves as a significant example from which the rest of the world can learn.
SECAM's Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine, noted that over the past 20 assemblies, the symposium has played a key role in the growth and mission of the Church in Africa.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Rwanda, Arnaldo Sanchez Catalan, delivered Pope Francis' message to, highlighting the Vatican's appreciation for the recent peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, facilitated with support from the United States.
He stated that the peace deal was a positive political step toward resolving longstanding conflicts.
Catalan emphasized that this SECAM gathering in Kigali aims to explore how the Catholic Church can actively contribute to peacebuilding, healing, and dialogue across Africa.
The President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, applauded Rwanda's hospitality and stressed that the Catholic Church must enhance its efforts in reconciling communities and promoting unity, encouraging collective action across Africa.
'This year's theme resonates strongly in these times of conflict affecting many African countries,' he said. 'The Church in Africa must become a symbol of reconciliation, justice, and peace. We must walk together as a family of God's children, called to be witnesses, peacemakers, and prophets of hope in a world longing for light.'
'This assembly is an opportunity to reinforce the internal cohesion of SECAM, encourage dynamic leadership, and deepen synergy between our regional conferences. In everything, we want to walk together as one Church, united in faith, mission, and service,' he said.
The 20th Plenary Assembly of SECAM which opened on Thursday, beginning with a Mass at Regina Pacis Parish in Remera, part of the Archdiocese of Kigali, continues through August 3, 2025.
After the Mass, the sessions continued at the Kigali Convention Centre, bringing together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, over 70 priests, and numerous lay participants to reflect on the Church's role over the next 25 years.
The assembly will close with a major youth-attended Mass in Kibeho, a revered Catholic pilgrimage site in Rwanda.
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