Churches urged to align teachings with national unity and development goals

The call was made at the end of a three-day retreat held in Gatsibo District from May 18 to 20, 2026.

The gathering brought together 59 leaders from AER member churches and Christian organizations, including pastors and senior representatives, to reflect on the role of faith-based institutions in promoting national unity, values and sustainable development.

Discussions focused on several themes, including “Ndi Umunyarwanda,” Pan-Africanism and self-reliance, with participants exploring how churches can contribute to social cohesion and national progress.

AER President Anfred Gatabazi said the retreat aimed to evaluate the alliance’s progress in aligning church programs with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 goals.

“We invited representatives from the Pan-Africanism Movement to help our pastors better understand programs such as Ndi Umunyarwanda and their importance,” he said. “We also resolved to strengthen gender equality in churches, fight violence against girls and encourage church leaders to address harmful social behaviors while increasing awareness of national programs among believers.”

Ada Darlene Kiyange, head of AER’s Family Development Commission, said participants also discussed ways churches could strengthen financial independence through income-generating initiatives.

“We reflected on how to promote the values of Ndi Umunyarwanda and a spirit of love for Africa so that Christians develop a stronger sense of identity, unity and shared responsibility,” she said.

Prof. Emile Rwamasirabo of the Pan-African Movement Rwanda said churches have an important role to play in promoting a culture of cooperation and solidarity among Africans.

“We want to see a shift in mindset that encourages collaboration and mutual support,” he said. “Churches can help shape that change by teaching values that reject division and hatred.”

Participants at the retreat also agreed to reinforce good governance within AER institutions by promoting transparency, accountability and integrity.

They further resolved to expand income-generating projects aimed at reducing dependence on foreign aid and strengthening self-reliance among member organizations.

The retreat concluded with a commitment to integrate the values of “Ndi Umunyarwanda” and Pan-Africanism more deeply into church programs and community activities, while aligning annual plans with national strategies such as NST2 and Vision 2050.

Founded in 1992, the Evangelical Alliance of Rwanda brings together 91 churches and Christian organizations across the country.