Church commissions Rwf500m commercial complex in Musanze

The Anglican Church of Rwanda yesterday commissioned a commercial complex in Musanze district, which, upon completion, is expected to cost Rwf 500 million.

Monday, September 24, 2012
Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda Onesphore Rwaje cuts a ribbon at the commissioning of the commercial complex yesterday. He is flanked by Bishop Laurent Mbanda of Shyira Diocese and Musanze District Mayor Winfrida Mpembyemungu. The New Times /

The Anglican Church of Rwanda yesterday commissioned a commercial complex in Musanze district, which, upon completion, is expected to cost Rwf 500 million.The first phase, which cost Rwf 220 million, consists of a modern mall and was officially opened by the Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Rwanda, Onesphore Rwaje, amid excitement from throngs of Christians and local residents.Just like the completed phase, it is anticipated that the second and final phase of construction will be conducted within an estimated period of ten months.The 3-storey complex comprises 26 rooms and the second phase will see 30 more rooms built.In his speech, Rwaje said that the financial ability to establish the complex had been generated from the stewardship of church goers with support from Cogebanque.He explained that the plan to construct the building was derived from the desire for the church to establish financial sustainability."We perceive this as a way of disseminating the word of God through both words and actions, since by doing so, we enable our Christians to establish a firm foundation for their economic growth,” he said.Rwaje noted that this way, the church would not have to depend on financial donations to enable it undertake its principle obligations in disseminating the word of God.Speaking at the occasion, Bishop Laurent Mbanda of Shyira Diocese, noted that the complex was a step in implementing targets preceding diocese authorities.On behalf of the Northern Provincial leadership, Executive Secretary Deogratias Kabagambe pointed out that the Anglican Church had proven to be in line with the ongoing national programme of Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS)."This building will certainly help promote human development through increased economic growth, thereby by enhancing general growth of the population,” he said.