The renovation began following a suspension in May 2025 by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) of the monthly prayer gatherings at 'Kwa Yezu Nyirimpuhwe', due to non-compliance with certain regulatory standards.
RGB instructed the Kabgayi Diocese to implement specific measures before activities could resume.
These included ensuring freedom of worship for all attendees, creating adequate parking facilities, establishing separate routes for pedestrians and vehicles, and providing quiet spaces where vulnerable individuals could participate in prayers undisturbed.
In an interview with IGIHE, the Chief Priest of Ruhango Parish, where the Peace Valley (the shrine) is located, Ngendahayo Tumaini Dominique, stated that the renovation works and the expansion of the worship space are almost complete to enhance the security of the large crowds.
'The work to expand and renovate the Peace Valley seems to be nearing completion, as most of the planned structures have been built, with others almost finished,' Father Ngendahayo said.
He explained that 60 new, fully-compliant toilets had been constructed, over 500 meters of pedestrian route and vehicle pathways had been laid, and large parking lots and gardens with various trees were established to improve air quality for worshippers.
'We have completed the construction of 60 new toilets and showers, a garden, a road, and a large parking area, all of which are nearing completion, with laterite being added and compacted,' he said.
Additionally, he mentioned that weak individuals will be accommodated in the Ruhango Parish Church, where "giant screens" will be installed to help them follow the prayers held at the Peace Valley.
Father Ngendahayo also highlighted that surveillance cameras will be installed to ensure the safety of worshippers, adding that these efforts aim to meet the requirements set by RGB and improve security for the large crowds attending.
The renovation work began on July 7, 2025, and is expected to be completed by the beginning of December. At that time, RGB will be notified of the completion, which will grant permission to resume the prayer gatherings at the site.
The gatherings at 'Kwa Yezu Nyirimpuhwe', began in 1991. Today, it has become a religious tourism destination, attracting visitors from across Africa and the world. The site attracts more than 100,000 people for worship on the first Sunday of each month.
IGIHE
