Under the reign of Mibambwe II Gisanura (1609-1642), the Kingdom of Rwanda experienced significant changes in both justice and social welfare. Following the death of Kigeli II Nyamuheshera, the kingdom transitioned to Mibambwe II, who became known for his unique approach to justice and his unprecedented generosity. Mibambwe II, often called Rugabisha-birenge for his generosity, is credited with establishing an organised system to distribute milk to the poor. ALSO READ: Rwandan history: the expansion of Rwanda under Kigeli II Nyamuheshera Chiefs were mandated to bring milk in accordance with their wealth, which was then distributed three times a day—morning, noon, and evening. This initiative provided crucial support to the kingdom's most vulnerable. Justice with a Personal Touch Mibambwe II's approach to justice was revolutionary for his time. He went beyond the customary reliance on witnesses, instead conducting secret investigations to ensure that cases were judged fairly. This led to some notable and severe punishments. A well-known incident involved two chiefs, Mikoranya and Kamegeli, who were asked to suggest penalties for criminals. ALSO READ: Rwandan History: A new era begins under Mutara I Semugeshi They proposed extreme punishments and subsequently faced the same sentences themselves. Kamegeli, who had suggested grilling on a heated rock, met that exact fate, giving rise to the local landmark the rock of Kamegeli. Mikoranya's fate mirrored the harsh punishment he proposed as well. Conflict with Neighboring Kingdoms Mibambwe II's reign also saw tensions with neighboring kingdoms, particularly Gisaka and Burundi. His exchanges with Kimenyi III Rwahashya of Gisaka were marked by insults, leading to an eventual conflict. An incident involving an attack on a non-aggression pact between Burundi and Rwanda caused further strife. Ntare III Kivimira of Burundi, known for his warrior spirit, led a raid into Rwanda, seizing cattle under the care of Rugaju. The retaliation by Rugaju's men left Ntare III unconscious, escalating the tensions between the two kingdoms. ALSO READ: Rwanda history: The resurgence of Rwanda under Ruganzu II Ndoli A Legacy of Militias Mibambwe II died in Ruganda (Bumbogo), in the former Tare commune, now part of Rulindo district. His death, likely from an infection in a leg wound, led to his burial in Remera y’Abaforongo. During his reign, Mibambwe II established several militias, including Imitali (Giant Javelins), Inyanga-kurushwa (Unsurpassable), Abadacumura (The Impeccable), and Abangongo (The Inhabitants of Kingogo). Despite these military groups, the traditions suggest that Mibambwe II did not make significant territorial gains during his time as king. Mibambwe II Gisanura's reign stands out in Rwandan history for its transformative approach to charity and justice, leaving a legacy that influenced the kingdom for generations to come.
