Growing Hope in Rwanda: Reflections on Our First Days

Muraho from Rwanda! Our Grow Hope Saskatchewan Learning Tour is off to an incredible start, and we are grateful for the opportunity to be here. Our group, made up of farmers, donors, and representatives from CBM (Canadian Baptist Ministries), MCC (Mennonite Central Committee), the Diocese of Saskatoon, and Development and Peace, has come together to learn, listen, and witness the impact of food security initiatives in this beautiful country.

A Warm Welcome to Kigali

After a long journey, we arrived in Kigali on Friday evening, where we were warmly welcomed by our gracious host Andre Sibomana from CBM and settled in at Solace Christian Guest House. The next morning, we gathered for a cultural orientation led by staff from CBM, MCC, and Caritas, who introduced us to their work in Rwanda. Their insights helped set the stage for our learning, giving us a deeper understanding of the history, challenges, and resilience of the communities we would be visiting.

The team at Toronto Pearson Airport, heading to Kigali. Left to right: Michael LeBlanc, Dan and Carol Siebert, Mary Guenther, Martha and Bruce Isaak, Myron Rogal, Lindi Mpofu, Michelle and Brian Hergott and Rick Guenther. Missing: Dennis Shierman.

Remembering Rwanda’s History

One of the most powerful moments of our trip so far was visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial. It was a sobering and emotional experience, as we walked through exhibits that told the heartbreaking story of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Standing in that sacred space, we reflected on the immense loss but also on the remarkable journey of healing and reconciliation that has taken place in Rwanda since then. It was a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of forgiveness.

Remembering: 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi.

A Blessed Sunday of Worship and Fellowship

Sunday was a truly blessed day as we worshipped with our friends at Friends Church in Kicukiro, a partner church of MCC in Rwanda. The joy, passion, and hospitality of the congregation were uplifting, and we were reminded of how faith unites us across cultures and continents. Later in the evening, we attended mass at St. Dominic, a beautiful way to continue our spiritual reflections and connect with the wider Christian community here.

Bishop David Bucura and Pastor Jean Baptiste at Friends Church in Kicukiro.

Meeting Our Partners in the Work of Food Security

Monday was a day of learning and inspiration as we visited the offices of MCC, PDN (Peace and Development Network), and AEBR (the Association of Baptist Churches in Rwanda). These organizations are doing incredible work in food security, sustainable agriculture, peacebuilding and community development. Hearing from their staff and leaders reinforced how vital these partnerships are in addressing hunger and poverty. Their commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening communities is truly inspiring.

As we continue our journey through Rwanda, we are filled with gratitude for the warm hospitality we have received and the deep learning that is already taking place. The days ahead will take us to rural communities where we will see firsthand the impact of conservation agriculture, farmer training, and food security projects supported by Grow Hope.

Stay tuned for more updates as we share stories from this transformative journey. Thank you for following along and for your prayers and support!