While this feast day resonates deeply across the globe, here in Rwanda, it holds a unique and sacred significance. It beats in the hills of Nyaruguru, a place now known as Kibeho — Rwanda’s Holy Land.
Here, in the early 1980s, a story began that would touch countless lives and change the course of history in Rwanda. This is the story of Kibeho.
On November 28, 1981, a 16-year-old student named Alphonsine Mumureke, studying at Kibeho Secondary School, had an extraordinary experience.
Around 12:35 PM, while eating lunch with her classmates, Alphonsine saw a Lady — a woman of unimaginable beauty, dressed in white.
She introduced herself as Nyina wa Jambo, meaning “Mother of the Word.” Alphonsine, confused and overwhelmed, initially couldn’t believe what she was seeing.
When she tried to share her experience, her classmates didn’t believe her. Some laughed, while others accused her of making things up. But Alphonsine knew what she had seen. And soon, others began to have similar experiences.
In the following months, more visions appeared. On January 12, 1982, Nathalie Mukamazimpaka, another student at Kibeho, began seeing the same Lady.
Nathalie, known for her deep faith, shared her experience, and soon, on March 2, 1982, Marie-Claire Mukangango joined them. The three girls, seemingly ordinary students, were now seeing and speaking with the Virgin Mary.
By May 31, 1982, the apparitions moved outside. And by August 15, 1982, the visions were witnessed at the “Podium,” where a large crowd had gathered, eager to witness the events unfold.
These visions were not fleeting encounters. The Virgin Mary conveyed urgent and powerful messages.
She called for repentance, a conversion of heart, and a renewed focus on prayer, especially the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows. She reminded the visionaries — and by extension, all Christians that suffering is a part of the path to salvation.
The Catholic Church, known for its careful process in evaluating such claims, began an investigation into the apparitions.
In 1982, just one year after the first vision, both medical and theological investigations were launched. Experts monitored the girls’ behaviours and testimonies to ensure the experiences were genuine.
For years, the Church conducted thorough reviews. In 1988, after much study, public devotion was allowed at Kibeho. This was a clear sign that the Church found the apparitions credible. However, full official recognition wouldn’t occur until later.
Finally, on June 29, 2001, after years of investigation, the apparitions were officially recognised. Kibeho became the first Vatican-approved Marian apparition site in Africa.
This recognition marked a turning point. Kibeho was no longer just a remote site in southern Rwanda; it was now a sacred pilgrimage destination.
People began travelling from all over the world to witness the site where the Virgin Mary had appeared. Many believed in the miraculous properties of the water from the shrine’s fountain, which became a symbol of hope and healing for the faithful.
On Assumption Day, August 15, Kibeho transforms into a place of prayer. Thousands of pilgrims gather for Mass. The hills echo with songs of faith and deep devotion.
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The lives of the visionaries unfolded in different ways. Alphonsine Mumureke, the first to see the Virgin Mary, went on to become a nun, dedicating her life to prayer.
Nathalie Mukamazimpaka, who had returned to live in Kibeho, continues to be a spiritual presence at the shrine.
Sadly, Marie-Claire Mukangango’s life was tragically cut short, but her legacy lives on, inspiring all who visit.
Today, Kibeho is a vibrant spiritual destination. The once difficult journey to the shrine has been transformed by modern infrastructure, with paved roads and welcoming buildings.
The local community has embraced this development, ensuring that Kibeho remains a place of peace, healing, and spiritual renewal for generations to come.
Locals sell religious items like rosaries and crosses, while others offer food and refreshments to the pilgrims.
Kibeho’s influence has extended far beyond Rwanda. Pilgrims come from all corners of the globe to experience the divine presence that many believe still resides in this holy land.
