Building the Future: Youth take the lead in Promoting Unity and Resilience

On 2 April 2026, a special retreat was held at Isano, bringing together youth representatives from various parishes, youth from PSA/Nyarugenge Campus, and representatives from PPCF. The retreat was organized by the Kigali Presbytery under the theme: “The Role of Church Youth in Promoting a Culture of Peace, Unity, and Resilience among Rwandans.”

Many young people in Rwanda were born after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. As a result, some still lack a deep understanding of the country’s history and the role the Church has played in rebuilding national unity. The objective of this retreat was therefore to help young people understand their role and opportunities within the Church, to educate them on Christian and Rwandan cultural values, and to inform them about activities related to the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, as well as their responsibilities in these activities.

In particular, the youth were encouraged to understand the role the Church has played in fostering unity, resilience, and positive relationships among Rwandans. This was intended to inspire them to adopt these values as a model and to develop a strong commitment to preventing hate speech, division, and genocide ideology. They were also challenged to become active builders of peace within Rwandan society.

Participants were provided with an overview of the country’s history, the core values of Rwandan culture, and the teachings of the Church. They also received guidance on their role in activities marking the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi. This helped them to understand that remembrance is not only about reflecting on the past, but also about shaping a future characterized by peace and resilience.

The retreat was attended by Church leaders at the Kigali Presbytery level, who also served as its organizers. It was particularly honored by the presence of the Church President and Legal Representative, Rev. Dr. Pascal Bataringaya, and his Deputy, Rev. Julie Nkandema.

In a detailed presentation, the President of the EPR explained how the Church has served as a pillar in promoting unity, reconciliation, and resilience. He reflected on the history of the Church, noting that it was among the first to publicly confess after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, acknowledging the role played by some of its members. He further emphasized that the Church continues to undertake significant initiatives aimed at strengthening unity among Rwandans.

The youth were encouraged to carry forward this legacy through their daily actions. They were urged to safeguard what has already been achieved while also looking ahead and contributing to the development of a nation characterized by lasting peace and sustainable development.

Following this retreat, the youth are expected to develop a deeper understanding of the country’s history, to educate others, and to serve as positive role models in building a safe and united Rwandan community. This retreat was not merely a one-day event, but the beginning of a transformative journey toward personal growth, self-development, and service to others. It marks a path of hope in which young people take the lead in striving for a Rwanda grounded in peace, unity, and resilience.

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