Rwandans in the US, on February 5, held the 21st edition of the annual Rwanda Prayer Banquet-USA, an event aimed at celebrating the faith and unity of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda living in the North-American country.

Convened in Washington D.C, the event brought together Rwandans and people from various nations, including the United States, Canada, Burundi, Burkina Faso, Gabon, and beyond who took part in activities including praise and worship as well as Rwandan cultural performances.

This year’s theme came from Isaiah 62:1-2: "And the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness. And call kings thy glory. And thou shalt be called by da new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.”

Apostle Mignone Alice Kabera, one of the keynote speakers, emphasised the significance of rededicating the country to God and the impact Christians can have on their communities and the country by coming together in support of their leaders. She drew upon the example of Aaron and Hur in the Bible (Exodus 17:12) to emphasise the responsibility of good people and the importance of supporting leaders.

The ambassador of Rwanda in Washington D.C. Mathilde Mukantabana referenced Psalm 29:11, acknowledging the mighty presence of the Lord in providing strength and peace to his people. She also noted the transformation of Rwanda and how it continues to be blessed with fortitude and serenity. Adding, "Your prayers lend support to the vision of the nation, acting like a tailwind that propels its efforts forward [...] ensuring its steadfastness and resilience.”

The High Commissioner of Rwanda to Ghana, Dr Aissa Kirabo Kacyira, drew on the remarks of President Paul Kagame during the recent National Prayer Breakfast held in Kigali and emphasised the importance of having a burden for one’s country to be a good patriot and serve it better.

She lauded the unity of the Rwandan community in the United States and called for it to be upheld. "We must build in the same spirit of unity fighting against anything that could ever again divide us,” she added.

The Chairman of Rwanda Leaders Fellowship, Moses Ndahiro, thanked like-minded organisations for their efforts in advancing God’s kingdom in Rwanda. He praised their generosity in providing clean water to needy families and encouraged them to do more.

Ambassador Charles and Rosette Murigande dedicated the leadership and people of Rwanda to God and issued a call to action for all attendees, urging them to dedicate their works to God to be able to carry out their responsibilities with greater purpose, guidance, and strength.

Antoinette Kanyabutembo, the founder of the Rwanda Prayer Banquet-USA, conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support, presence, and contributions. She implored the crowd to remain steadfast in their prayers for the greater good of Rwanda and to stay united.