On Thursday, June 27, 2025, the Evangelical Alliance of Rwanda (Alliance Evangélique au Rwanda - AER) hosted its General Assembly at the Assemblee de Dieu conference hall in Kicukiro District. The meeting gathered leaders from various affiliate churches under one umbrella organization.

The assembly focused on two major objectives: electing new leadership and revising the organization’s founding constitution to better align with Rwanda’s governance framework and the evolving needs of the faith community, as outlined by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB).

Following these constitutional reforms, the members voted in key leaders to guide AER for the upcoming five-year term. The newly elected team includes:

President: Bishop Gatabazi Alfred
Vice President: Bishop Uwamahoro Felix
Secretary General: Bishop Dr. Esron Maniragaba
Deputy Secretary General: Bishop Kabutware Claude
Clerk: Canon Sebahizi Victor
Treasurer: Bishop Benegusenga Emmanuel
Legal Advisor: Bishop Dr. Emmanuel Safari
Specialized commission leaders were also appointed to oversee key areas of the organization’s societal and spiritual activities:

Welfare Commission: Mbanzabugabo Aminadabu
Evangelism and Counseling Commission: Apostle Augustin Gakwaya
Women’s Development Commission: Pastor Jane Bisangwa
Youth Commission: Pastor Ndagijimana Charles
Outgoing President’s Message

Bishop Dr. Bunini Gahungu, who served as the President of AER for a remarkable 27 years, expressed gratitude during his farewell remarks. Reflecting on AER’s journey, he celebrated its growth from 17 member churches at its inception to currently 70 affiliates. He thanked God for the strength bestowed upon him throughout his leadership.

He also appreciated the support of the Rwandan government, emphasizing its collaborative partnership, which significantly contributed to AER’s progress. Bishop Gahungu extended heartfelt thanks to past committee members while imparting blessings and encouragement to the incoming leadership team, recognizing their readiness to steer the alliance into the future.

Vision of the New Leadership

Bishop Gatabazi Alfred, the newly elected President, outlined his strategic roadmap for AER’s next chapter. His priorities include strengthening evangelism efforts across Rwanda, enhancing cooperation with government institutions, improving the spiritual and social welfare of church members, and ensuring compliance with RGB directives, particularly in areas such as preaching standards and infrastructure upgrades for congregational venues.

In his speech, he acknowledged the challenges facing member churches, many of which are currently closed, and called for resilience. Bishop Gatabazi stated, “We are stepping into leadership during a difficult period. However, we are determined to work tirelessly with unwavering commitment to overcome obstacles and fulfill our responsibilities. Together, we will bring transformative change.”