‘Rwanda Shima Imana’, the national thanksgiving event, is making a comeback on September 15 after a five-year break. Last held in December 2018, the event will this year take place at Amahoro Stadium under the theme “Expressing our gratitude to God for enabling Rwanda’s transformation.” The theme was inspired by Psalm 126:3: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” The first edition of Rwanda Shima Imana took place in August 2012, with the first three editions being notably successful. However, the attendance began to decline since 2015, prompting organisers to decentralize the event at district level in a year later until the last edition which took place in December 2018. Speaking to The New Times, Ambassador Charles Murigande, the coordinator of Rwanda Shima Imana, said that they are looking to revive the event. ALSO READ: Rwanda Shima Imana celebration to be at sector level “The reasons for the event’s hiatus are many, including the passing of former National Coordinator Pastor Théophile Kamanzi, who was not replaced,” Murigande explained. “Without a champion, Rwanda Shima Imana lost momentum. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, which further delayed efforts to reactivate the event,” he added. With the event’s return now around the corner, Murigande emphasized that the 2024 gathering edition “will also be a time for the people of Rwanda to renew their commitment to thanking, praising, and honoring God in their lives and the nation's journey over the past 30 years.” Rwanda Shima Imana 2024 will also offer Christian churches and organizations an opportunity to reflect on their contributions to Rwanda’s development. They will be encouraged to play an even greater role in addressing the current and future challenges facing Rwandan society. In line with thanksgiving, Murigande highlighted several key achievements over the past three decades, including peaceful and transparent elections, the socio-economic transformation following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and the return and resettlement of refugees. The commitment of Rwandans to unity, accountability, and ambition has also driven remarkable progress in all sectors. Other accomplishments to be celebrated include the promotion and protection of equal rights and opportunities for all Rwandans, the freedom of worship enjoyed in the country, and the unity of the Church of Christ in Rwanda. As for the expected outcomes, Murigande hopes the event will inspire Rwandans to cultivate a culture of national prayer and thanksgiving. He also envisions a renewed awareness of the vital role the Church can play in nation-building and addressing societal issues for a better future. Leaders of Christian denominations, along with government and private sector leaders, are expected to attend the event while renowned gospel musician Chryso Ndasingwa will lead performances at the event.
