This appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Diocese of Butare, as Father Ntagungira steps into his role with a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to his pastoral duties.
Born on April 3, 1964, in Kigali, Bishop-elect Ntagungira began his spiritual journey in the Kigali minor seminary, followed by the Rutongo preparatory seminary. He pursued advanced studies in philosophy and theology at the Nyakibanda major seminary, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to the Catholic Church.
Ordained as a priest on August 1, 1993, for the Archdiocese of Kigali, he initially served as the prefect of studies at the Ndera minor seminary.
His academic excellence led him to the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome, where he earned a doctorate in canon law.
Following his return to Rwanda, he took on several key roles, including chancellor of the Archdiocese of Kigali and president of the diocesan Commission for Missions and Ecumenism.
In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Ntagungira served as rector of the Saint Vincent minor seminary in Ndera and held a crucial role at the Interdiocesan Ecclesiastical Tribunal of Kigali. Most recently, he was the parish priest of Regina Pacis in Kigali.
Bishop Philippe Rukamba, who has led the Butare Diocese for over two decades, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service.
He held the position since he was appointed Bishop on January 18, 1997.
His episcopal ordination took place on April 12 of the same year.
Born in Ngozi, Burundi, and raised in Uganda, Sezibera was among the youth who made the life-changing decision to leave behind their personal pursuits to join the fight to liberate Rwanda after completing his medical studies.
At the battlefield, he undertook numerous roles: from wielding a gun and directly confronting the enemy to treating the wounded under dire conditions plus leading his fellow fighters in some incidences.
After Rwanda’s liberation, Sezibera served in various capacities, including in the government, parliament, foreign missions in different roles and at the World Health Organization (WHO). At one time Sezibera faced health challenges that saw him out of politics for around four years.
In 2019, Dr. Sezibera suffered a stroke, a serious, life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off and can potentially lead to death if immediate medical attention is not provided. The stroke struck unexpectedly, but with the support of his family and the Rwandan government, he is now on the road to recovery.
In an exclusive interview recently with RBA, Ambassador Dr. Sezibera discussed his current condition and reflected on the journey he has taken since childhood.
“I was born in Ngozi, Burundi, partly because of Rwanda’s turbulent history. My father was killed in 1963. I was born a refugee in that country, but I grew up in Uganda with my uncle’s family, where I studied until I returned to Rwanda in 1990 with the Rwanda Patriotic Army,” he revealed.
Despite being born and raised in exile, he always knew that one day he would return home and claim his rights like any other citizen. This belief was the main reason he joined others in taking up arms after peaceful means had failed to liberate the country.
Determined to regain rights to his homeland, which had been denied to him, he left Uganda amid political difficulties where Rwandans were constantly reminded that Uganda was not their ancestral home.
“I always thought I would find a way back to my country. Fortunately, the Rwandan Patriotic Front was organizing itself in Uganda, and that gave us hope that we would eventually come back to our country,” he narrated.
Born in 1964, before joining the army, Ambassador Dr. Sezibera initially practiced medicine in Uganda, first at Mbuya Military Hospital and then in Mbale, where he worked for a few months at Mbale district Hospital for a year.
He decided to leave a well-paying job in a country with all the necessities to contribute his skills to treating those wounded in an effort to liberate his country.
“For four years, I practiced medicine in the bush. It was tough because we had no medical supplies and infrastructure, but despite that, medical care was needed. We did our best with what we had. We carried out major surgeries in the banana plantations with basic anesthesia,” he said.
“It was quite tough to perform surgeries under fire, sometimes in the dark, under torchlight. It was a task that required great dedication,” added Sezibera.
They also provided medical care to the impoverished local population. “When we were operating in the northern part of Rwanda, one area I remember is there were very poor people. We ended up not only vaccinating our troops but also the surrounding communities. Although we lacked enough equipment and medicines, we shared whatever we had with the local population, which had clearly been abandoned by their government for a very long time,” he said.
Sezibera recounts that this difficult life taught him many valuable lessons, including the resilience of the youth who were on the battlefield with unwavering determination.
There were times when a soldier under his care, perhaps just after surgery of battle wounds, would try to escape their sick days before they were fully healed to return to the frontline to help defeat the enemy.
“The second lesson I learned was the importance of leadership. After major operations in what we called the theater, I would sometimes see President Kagame, who was the commander, appearing to check on the situation, following up on whether we had what the young people needed. Having a leader like that, always aware of what is going on and solving problems, both major and minor,” he said, “taught me the value of leadership. He didn’t need to say anything; all of us just learned from that.”
When Rwanda was finally liberated, Ambassador Sezibera and his unit were stationed on Jali Hill in 1994, where they fought. On the night of July 3, 1994, Habyarimana’s forces began fleeing the country, retreating from Kigali with haste.
As the situation improved and Rwanda was liberated, his team thought they would move into the city to assist in other tasks, but they were told it was not possible and that they needed to chase the fleeing forces out of the country.
“My unit was asked to join others to chase withdrawing forces up to Gisenyi and confirm they had crossed into Zaire. I actually never entered the capital with the rest. I went straight to Gisenyi,” he noted.
However, after three weeks, he received an urgent message requesting his return to Kigali, where he was appointed Secretary to President Pasteur Bizimungu.
He served in this role for a few months before being elected in 1995 as one of the six representatives of the army in the Transitional National Assembly, where he served until 1999.
“I was then appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States. After completing my tour of duty, I came back to Rwanda and became the President’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region for several years,” he revealed.
He later became Minister of Health, utilizing his medical background, and served as Secretary General of the East African Community from 2011 to 2016, followed by a stint as a Senator until 2018. In 2018, he was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, a role he held until November 2019.
{{Overcoming a stroke}}
The stroke occurred while he was one of the four Special Envoys of the Commonwealth. When asked how it happened, Sezibera remembers vividly that he was at work as usual and had gone for lunch when the stroke struck.
“I didn’t have any warning signs. I was in good health, and I was a sportsperson. At the time, I was doing my work, playing tennis as usual, and wasn’t overweight. I was a bit heavier than I wanted to be, but I wasn’t overweight. But today, I am on the path to recovery,” he says.
Sezibera shared that he is now feeling better and is in the process of recovering fully from the stroke, thanks to the excellent medical care he received, supported by the Rwandan government and his family.
“I am recovering, but it takes time. Let’s remember that I am not a very young man. If I had been in my twenties, then I would have probably recovered much faster than I have now.”
In the early months after the stroke, he used a wheelchair for about three months before beginning to walk independently. He mentioned that he was fortunate that his brain was not severely affected, allowing him to retain his ability to speak, remember, and function normally.
“It was a challenge for my family, but they have been very helpful. My wife and children were always there for me. I received very good support from the president and the government. I was provided with excellent medical care both in Rwanda and outside. It was a difficult time, but I am grateful we got through it.”
Among the lessons he learned from these challenges was the importance of God, country, and family.
Regarding future work, Sezibera indicates that he is focusing on his recovery, as that is also a task in itself.
However, in relation to his appointment as a WHO special envoy for health and education, he occasionally works with the team and writes to fulfill these responsibilities.
The colourful ceremony, graced by more than 20 Heads of State, marked the beginning of a new five-year mandate for the RPF-Inkotanyi chairman, who has put Rwanda on the world map with his transformative leadership.
As he returns to his Urugwiro Village office, his next major task will be to nominate members of his Cabinet who will assist him in implementing his development agenda for the next five years.
According to the Rwandan Constitution, President Kagame has 15 days to appoint a Prime Minister, who will then assist him in selecting Cabinet members.
After naming the Prime Minister, the President is required by law to appoint Cabinet members within 15 days, as per guidelines in Article 116 of the Constitution.
Therefore, Kagame is expected to appoint the Prime Minister by Monday, August 26, 2024, which will mark the end of the 15-day period.
Both the Prime Minister and Cabinet members serve at the President’s discretion, giving him all powers to either retain all, some, or none of the current members according to his strategic needs.
Article 118 of the Constitution of Rwanda provides that, before assuming office, the Prime Minister and Cabinet members must take an oath of office publicly before the President.
The Cabinet is accountable to both the President and Parliament. The members are, among other things, responsible for key roles, including policy development and implementation, administration and oversight of government programs and projects, budget management, and advising the President on various matters.
The next Parliament is expected to hold its first sitting within 30 days after the announcement of the final election results, which should occur by August 22, given that the results were announced on July 22.
The biggest task ahead for the new Cabinet will be to develop and implement policies to accelerate Rwanda’s growth in all areas, as pledged by Kagame during his swearing-in on Sunday.
He pledged “more hard work” while acknowledging that Rwanda had exceeded expectations in terms of growth over the past 30 years, despite being derailed by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
“Our tragic past ignited a fire in each one of us, the fire of hope, resilience, and justice,” Kagame said.
“From security to health, infrastructure, and jobs for youth, we are taking responsibility for our challenges and offering solutions. That is the mind set that brings us closer together and creates positive change over time for everyone.”
“The RSF militia resorted to new massacres after the systematic shelling of markets and civilian facilities, and storming homes of citizens and liquidating them,” he said.
According to the governor, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the joint force of the armed movements in the Darfur region had managed to repulse the RSF attack and inflicted heavy losses on them.
“El Fasher will remain resilient and steadfast and soon will be free of any rebels,” the governor said.
The RSF has not issued any comments regarding the attack.
Since May 10, fierce clashes between the SAF and the RSF have been raging in El Fasher.
Sudan has been witnessing a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023, resulting in the loss of at least 16,650 lives. An estimated 10.7 million people are now internally displaced in Sudan, with approximately 2.2 million others seeking refuge in neighboring countries, according to recent UN data.
The Kenyan Head of State praised Rwanda’s tremendous growth in the political, democratic, and economic spheres since the 1994 Genocide that left the country in ruins.
He made these remarks while congratulating President Paul Kagame after he was sworn in for another term in office on Sunday, August 11, 2024.
President Ruto was among more than 20 Heads of State who attended Kagame’s inauguration for a fourth term at Amahoro Stadium.
Taking to X after the event, President Ruto noted that the new term presents an opportunity for Kagame to continue his transformative leadership in Rwanda.
“Congratulations to my brother, President Paul Kagame, for being sworn in for another term to continue transforming your country, Rwanda,” President Ruto wrote.
“In the past 30 years, the people of Rwanda have risen from the devastating ashes of the 1994 Genocide and undergone tremendous progress in the political, democratic, and economic spheres.”
He also lauded Rwanda as a valuable member of the East African Community, the African Union, and the international community.
President Kagame, who led the Rwandan Patriotic Army to liberate Rwanda in July 1994 was officially first elected president in 2000 after his predecessor, Pasteur Bizimungu resigned.
The RPF Inkotanyi flag bearer secured a landslide victory in the latest polls held in mid-July, garnering 99.16% of the votes cast. He defeated Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, who got 0.5% of the vote, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, who managed a minute 0.32%.
In his inauguration speech, the Head of State acknowledged that much has been achieved over the past 30 years, surpassing expectations. He pledged to continue efforts to build and advance the country.
“Our focus now returns to the future. For the last thirty years, our country has been a good work-in-progress. This new mandate means the beginning of even more hard work,” he told thousands of citizens and other dignitaries who attended the colourful ceremony.
Addressing thousands of citizens and other dignitaries who gathered at Amahoro Stadium to witness the momentous occasion, the Head of State began by thanking Rwandans for granting him another term to continue his development agenda.
“The electoral campaign was a period of joy and satisfaction for all of us. Millions attended rallies, and almost everyone went to vote,” President Kagame commended Rwandans.
He noted that much has been achieved over the past 30 years, surpassing expectations.
“Over the past three decades, what Rwandans have managed to accomplish is even more than we expected. Indeed, it is beyond what words can describe, given where we started from,” Kagame said amid chants of jubilations with more than 20 Heads of State in attendance.
Recounting Rwanda’s rise from the ashes of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, President Kagame revealed that the new term presented another opportunity to achieve even more.
“Our tragic past ignited a fire in each one of us: a fire of hope, resilience, and justice. This is who we have become as Rwandans,” he noted.
“Our focus now returns to the future. For the last thirty years, our country has been good work-in-progress. This new mandate means the beginning of even more hard work.”
He affirmed that with exemplary leadership and collaborations, no goal is beyond reach and all aspirations are achievable.
“Why not do even better than we have done? That expectation to keep improving is not a dream, it is realistic. We can do it, and we will do it,” President Kagame added.
Kagame, who led the Rwandan Patriotic Army to liberate Rwanda from the Genocidal regime of Juvénal Habyarimana in 1994, was re-elected with 99.18% of the votes cast in the July elections.
He ran against two competitors: Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, who got 0.50% of the vote, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, who managed only 0.32%.
In the coming days, the newly elected Parliament is expected to take oath and begin its term before which the President will later present his appointed cabinet for approval.
Despite years of diplomatic efforts and international interventions, peace remains elusive, and Kagame’s speech laid bare the fundamental reasons why this is the case.
“Peace cannot be delivered by anyone from anywhere, no matter how powerful, if the party most directly concerned does not do what is needed,” Kagame said.
This statement emphasized that peace efforts cannot succeed if the parties directly involved in the conflict do not take the necessary steps. His words were a clear reminder that external forces, no matter how strong, cannot impose peace where there is no commitment from those at the heart of the conflict.
“You can’t wake up one day and decide to deny whoever you want their citizenship rights and expect to get away with it,” The Head of State warned.
Over the years, numerous initiatives have been launched to address the security challenges in eastern DRC. Diplomatic interventions, peace agreements, and mediation by regional leaders have all played crucial roles.
Kagame specifically acknowledged the contributions of Kenya and Angola’s leadership in these efforts.
“I would like to thank the President of Angola, President João Lourenço, and the President of Kenya, President William Ruto, among others, for everything they have done and continue to do,” he said, expressing gratitude for their dedication to regional stability.
However, despite these efforts, Kagame pointed out that peace cannot be achieved without a genuine commitment from those directly involved in the conflict.
“Peace cannot happen all on its own. We all have to do our part, and the right things, in order to achieve and sustain peace,” he emphasized.
The failure to address fundamental injustices, such as the denial of citizenship rights to certain groups, has been a significant barrier to peace. “There has to be a meeting in the middle. There has to be a compromise,” Kagame stressed, highlighting the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding.
Kagame also spoke about the broader global context, criticizing the double standards and unaddressed inequalities that have exacerbated regional conflicts. He called for a more just and equitable approach to international relations, where powerful nations do not impose their will on others.
“There is no longer room for the powerful to impose their vision about how others ought to live, or to create narratives that falsify the truth. This must always be resisted, even when under pressure,” he cautioned.
The President also highlighted the role of the African Union in promoting regional security and development. Since its establishment, the African Union has been instrumental in fostering a more integrated and secure Africa.
Kagame pointed to Africa’s progress in areas such as security, health, infrastructure, and youth employment as evidence that the continent is taking responsibility for its own challenges and offering homegrown solutions.
“That is the mindset that brings us closer together and creates positive change over time for everyone,” he said, emphasizing the importance of African unity and self-reliance.
Kagame expressed optimism about the future, both for Rwanda and the broader region, imploring the need for continued hard work and dedication to achieving lasting peace and development.
“Why not do even better than we have done? That expectation to keep improving is not a dream, it is realistic. We can do it, and we will do it,” Kagame declared.
Peace has remained elusive in the region despite numerous efforts and while external interventions are important, true peace can only be achieved when those directly involved take responsibility and commit to the necessary compromises and actions.
The ongoing efforts by regional leaders and the African Union provide a strong foundation, but it is up to the local actors to make peace a reality.
This fourth presidential term is a challenge for all leaders and citizens to rise to the occasion and work together to build a stable, secure, and prosperous future for all.
Citizens from various parts of the country braved the morning cold to gather at the newly unveiled state-of-the-art stadium before dawn, highlighting their enthusiasm for the inauguration of Kagame, who is credited with spearheading various economic and social reforms that have put Rwanda on the world map.
The stadium was adorned with the colours of Rwanda’s national flag, and many attendees wore matching outfits. The blue, yellow, and green of the flag represent happiness and peace, enlightenment, economic development, and hope for prosperity, respectively.
For the better part of the morning, attendees were treated to songs and dances as they awaited the official kickoff of the event at around 2:00 p.m., when high-ranking dignitaries began to arrive.
More than 20 Heads of State graced the event and were treated to a warm welcome befitting their stature.
The Presidents who attended the event included Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, João Lourenco (Angola), William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Malawi), Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé (Togo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central Africa Republic), Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo) and Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti).
Others were Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles), Mamady Doumbouya (Interim President of Guinea), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique.
King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, and Brice Oligui Nguema, President of the Transition of the Gabonese Republic, also attended the ceremony.
At a quarter past 3 p.m., the motorcade of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame made its way into the stadium to thunderous cheers from the attendees.
Thereafter, President Kagame was sworn into office for another five-year term. The oath of office was administered by Faustin Ntezilyayo, the Chief Justice and President of Rwanda’s Supreme Court.
The Head of State was then presented with ceremonial symbols, including the sword and shield.
President Kagame proceeded to inspect a guard of honour mounted by the Rwanda Defence Forces and the Police.
Shortly thereafter, the military executed a spectacular display, featuring helicopter manoeuvre that soared through the stadium.
After approximately an hour of breathtaking performances, the army and police exited the stage, making way for traditional dancers who captivated the audience, keeping them on their feet throughout the exhilarating display.
At around 5:00 p.m., President Kagame took to the podium to deliver his speech to the enthusiastic crowd.
Following his speech, a ceremonial RDF convoy advanced with to formally escort and secure the instruments of power, ensuring their safe return to the designated place repository, in accordance with protocol.
The Heads of State began arriving in the country on the evening of Saturday, August 10, 2024, while others jetted in on Sunday morning to witness the momentous occasion.
The leaders were accorded a guard of honour by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and a warm welcome by senior government officials at the Kigali International Airport.
And on Sunday afternoon, the presidents were escorted to the state-of-the-art Amahoro Stadium, where they joined thousands of ecstatic citizens gathered at the newly refurbished facility to witness the swearing-in of their Head of State.
It was a spectacular scene at the stadium as the leaders were welcomed to the venue with traditional songs, dances, and cheers from the crowd.
The Presidents who attended the event included Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, João Lourenco (Angola), William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Malawi), Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé (Togo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central Africa Republic), Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo) and Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti).
Others were Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles), Mamady Doumbouya (Interim President of Guinea), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique.
King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, and Brice Oligui Nguema, President of the Transition of the Gabonese Republic, also attended the ceremony.
Malawi, Ivory Coast, and Uganda were represented at the inauguration by Vice Presidents Dr. Michael Usi, Tiemoko Meyliet Koné, and Jessica Alupo, respectively.
The event was also graced by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Boughali, the Assembly President of Algeria, and Patrice Trovoada, the Prime Minister of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Ousmane Sonko, the leader of Senegal’s opposition, and Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Army Chief, also attended, underscoring the broad international representation at this momentous occasion.
Kagame, the flagbearer of the RPF-Inkotanyi, secured 99.18% of the votes cast in the elections conducted in July. His challengers, Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, came in second with 44,479 votes (0.50%), while Philippe Mpayimana finished third with 28,466 votes (0.32%).
This historic event, following his overwhelming victory in the July 14-15 elections, marks the beginning of Kagame’s fourth term as Rwanda’s leader, a testament to his enduring leadership and the country’s remarkable progress under his guidance.
The inauguration is more than a ceremonial event; it is a powerful statement of Rwanda’s political stability and its rising influence on the global stage.
Over two dozen heads of state have gathered to witness this momentous occasion, reflecting the immense respect and admiration President Kagame commands both within Africa and internationally.
“President Kagame is not just a leader for Rwanda; he is a leader for Africa,” remarked President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, emphasizing Kagame’s role in shaping the continent’s future.
The political implications of this inauguration are significant for both Rwanda and the broader African continent. Kagame’s leadership has been characterized by visionary policies that have transformed Rwanda into a model of economic development, infrastructure growth, and social empowerment.
His commitment to innovation and technological advancement has particularly benefited Rwanda’s youth, equipping them with valuable skills that are driving the country’s future.
“Under President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda has become a hub of innovation,” noted President Emmanuel Macron of France. “The progress we see here is a testament to what can be achieved with strong, visionary leadership.”
The inauguration ceremony itself is a vibrant celebration of Rwanda’s cultural heritage, featuring traditional dances and performances that highlight the nation’s unity and pride.
Testimonies from Rwandans and international leaders alike underscore the impact of Kagame’s leadership on the country’s transformation.
“Rwanda is a beacon of hope and progress,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya. “And President Kagame’s steadfast leadership is at the heart of this remarkable journey.”
As Rwanda continues to advance, the country’s achievements in women’s empowerment and gender equality stand out as significant milestones.
Women have taken their rightful place in leadership roles across various sectors, reflecting the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and justice. This progress is not just symbolic; it represents the foundation of Rwanda’s continued growth and stability.
President Kagame’s leadership has also fostered strong international relationships, with many global leaders expressing their admiration and support.
“President Kagame’s unwavering dedication to his country is an inspiration to us all,” said Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany. “His visionary approach to governance and development sets a powerful example for the world.”
Today, Rwanda celebrates not just a leader, but the collective achievements of a nation that has risen from its past to embrace a future filled with hope, prosperity, and boundless possibilities.
The presence of so many esteemed global leaders at this inauguration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing influence on the world stage and the respect Kagame has earned as a leader of immense capability and vision.
As the country looks ahead to the next five years under Kagame’s leadership, the focus remains on building a future where everyone can thrive. The unity and strength that Rwanda has demonstrated are the cornerstones of its success, and this inauguration is a celebration of that spirit.
“Congratulations, President Kagame. Your leadership continues to inspire us all,” echoed President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, capturing the sentiment of a nation and a world that watches Rwanda with admiration and respect.
This historic milestone is a reminder of the journey Rwanda has undertaken and the bright future that lies ahead. With President Kagame at the helm, the possibilities are indeed boundless.
