Rwanda’s Protestant churches expressed shame over the role some members played in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and called for reconciliation.
On June 26, 2026, the Protestant Council of Rwanda (CPR) has marked the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by acknowledging the painful role that some religious leaders and church members played during the atrocities, while calling for renewed commitment to truth, reconciliation, and responsible faith leadership.
The commemoration ceremony brought together church leaders, genocide survivors, representatives of Ibuka, and members of different Protestant denominations to reflect on the lessons of the past and the responsibility of churches in promoting peace and unity.
During the event, genocide survivor Etienne Gahigi shared his testimony, recalling the suffering endured by the Tutsi and expressing sadness that some people who were expected to protect innocent lives instead became involved in the killings.
He noted that many lives could have been saved if more individuals had chosen humanity over hatred, emphasizing that faith should always inspire compassion, justice, and the protection of human life.
Representing Ibuka, Alphonse Nsengimana challenged churches to continue teaching the true message of God by promoting reconciliation, national unity, and resilience. He encouraged religious institutions to remain active partners in preventing genocide ideology and strengthening peaceful coexistence among Rwandans.
The Vice President of the Protestant Council of Rwanda (CPR) and spokesperson of the Presbyterian Church in Rwanda (EPR), Dr. Pascal Bataringaya, said churches should not ignore the painful truth that some members and leaders participated in the genocide.
He stressed that remembering these events should not only honor the victims but also serve as an opportunity for self-examination and transformation. According to him, churches have a responsibility to ensure that future generations are guided by biblical values of love, justice, and respect for human dignity.
Participants agreed that commemorating the Genocide against the Tutsi remains an important opportunity to strengthen unity, fight genocide denial and hatred, and encourage faith communities to play a positive role in building a peaceful and inclusive Rwanda.
The annual remembrance also reaffirmed the commitment of Protestant churches to support healing, preserve the memory of the victims, and contribute to a future founded on truth, accountability, and reconciliation.
Bishop Aphrodis Mutabaruka
Rev. Gato Munyamasoko
