Bishop Ngendahayo of EAR-Byumba Diocese Urges Self-Reliance

By The Inspirer.

Bishop Emmanuel Ngendahayo of the EAR-Byumba Diocese has called on citizens to work diligently and use aid effectively to avoid dependency and begging.

He made this remark during an event where livestock was distributed to residents by the EAR Church in the Kibari area of Byumba Sector, Gicumbi District.

This district has a significant number of impoverished residents, including over 200 families of historically marginalized communities.

This year, the Anglican Church leaders have initiated various development projects in the area, such as constructing a health center, recreational facilities, and schools.

Anastase Nsengimana, a local resident, expressed gratitude for the church’s efforts, saying, “This area has seen tremendous development thanks to their work. The ongoing projects are promising job opportunities for us.”

Byumba Diocese has a longstanding partnership with Anglicans in Colorado Springs, USA, aimed at promoting development in the Kibari area. Pastor Kenny Robertson from Colorado Springs remarked,

“For 20 years, we’ve collaborated with the Rwandan Anglican Church. Together, we’ve built the Ruhenda Health Center, a community hall nearing completion, and vocational schools to equip residents with skills for better livelihoods. Good health and prosperity are what God desires for us.” He said.

Beneficiaries of the livestock program, a collaboration between the Byumba Diocese and the American church, shared how the animals will transform their lives.

“These cows will provide us with manure and milk, which will help nourish our children and prevent stunting.” Said Angelique Basabire, another citizen.

Bishop Ngendahayo emphasized the church’s dual mission of preaching the gospel and improving community welfare. He urged the residents to care for the provided resources and avoid selling them, encouraging a culture of sharing and mutual aid.

“We tell the community to take good care of what we give them. They should remember to help others by passing on livestock to those in need. This promotes a culture of sharing and solidarity,” he said.

Byumba Sector Executive Secretary, Theoneste Ngezahumuremyi, praised the Anglicans’ role in the region’s development, aligning with the government’s poverty alleviation goals.

“Their infrastructure projects, including the Ruhenda Health Center, a quality soccer field, and community hall, along with providing livestock to residents, significantly support the government’s poverty reduction efforts.” Ngezahumuremyi said.

The ‘Run With Rwanda’ program by the Anglicans in Gicumbi and Colorado has also boosted community health awareness, encouraging physical exercise to combat non-communicable diseases among the elderly.

 

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