NORTHERN PROVINCE

MUSANZE — The Anglican Church in Rwanda, on Sunday, held a thanksgiving prayer, in honour of the William Wilber Force Award, received by the Bishop of Shira Diocese, Rt. Rev Bishop John Rucyahana.

The special mass held in the Musanze district, was led by Arch Bishop Emmanuel Collin and attended by senior government officials.

High ranking officials included, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rosemary Museminali, who was the guest of honour, the Minister of Justice, Tharcisse Karugarama and representatives of the Anglican Church from Uganda and the area local authorities.  

At the function, Rucyahana said that whereas Rwanda has historical drums of anguish and pain, today as a nation, there should be sounds of joy because of the remarkable success so far achieved.

"Jesus forgave amidst pain, Rwandans should not wait for anguish to cease in order to reconcile but let us do it now. We had our own mess we should clean,’’ he said, while speaking about unity and reconciliation.

Rucyahana received the award for his role in reconstructing the Rwandan society and making a significant role in the fight against the social ills of the day.

Also addressing the congregation, Museminali, observed that education, business and other development initiatives do not contradict Christianity.

She commended Ruchahana for his role which she said other leaders should emulate while harnessing the talents of the young generation.

Referred to as the new Biblical Nehemiah, Rucyahana’s achievements range from his evangelical work in and outside Rwanda, to development projects.

He has previously contributed to home construction for Rwandans, returning from exile, construction of Nyiragikokora and Kimonyi dispensaries and construction of schools. He is currently taking care of over 1000 vulnerable children.

Rucyahana also works through a Christian NGO, Prison Fellowship International, which encourages suspects in prisons to confess their crimes as part of the reconciliation drive. 

Named in honour of William Wilber Force after his 40-year campaign against slave trade in the United Kingdom, the award received by the bishop recognises people making positive change in the values and character of society.

The bishop is also due to receive the Russel Brown Climate of Excellence in Leadership Award given by Harry J. LIoyd Charitable Trust.

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