This past February, I traveled to Rwanda for the first time with two priests from the Church of England in East Leightonstone. Visiting local communities, I met Kevine, a young single mother with two children under five, whose story moved me profoundly.

Kevine had been supported by our congregation’s programs—the Mother’s Union from East Leightonstone helped her purchase goats to rear, giving her a sustainable source of income and hope for her children. Meeting her and hearing about the challenges she faces was so heart-wrenching that I cried the whole evening, realizing no child should have to suffer for lack of basic support.

Because of her story, I made the personal decision to support Kevine’s children through quality education, and to continue seeking ways to help more women like her. Her courage and resilience embody the mission we hope to nurture in our own community—a mission now at risk because of circumstances beyond our control.

The Struggle Facing Churches in Rwanda:

Not long ago, our congregation of Rwandan community received a devastating news, a government directive required that their churches be demolished due to structural limitations and new safety standards concerns.

The Anglican Church in Nyamata, along with many other churches that failed to meet government criteria, has been shut down, leaving communities scattered and spiritual homes closed.

For many years, our church was far more than a building. It was a refuge for the broken and hurting.

A place of hope for families facing challenges.

A center of service, reaching widows, orphans, and those in medical, psychological and spiritual needs.

The heartbeat of their community, where everyone found belonging

The closure has left a deep void. Families struggle to find space to gather, children miss out on vital faith education, and community programs have slowed down. Every day the building remains closed prolongs emotional, spiritual, and practical hardship.

Where they are now: Currently, the congregation meets in small home cell groups as seen in one of the pictures. They pray, worship, and support one another, but the absence of a proper church building is deeply felt because this home cell is very tiny room needing to accommodate people five times of its capacity.

Through God’s grace, the church of Nyamata have received a Building Permit for a new house of worship. The local community is giving sacrificially—farmers, widows, youth, and small families are contributing what they can, but the full cost of construction is beyond their reach.

Rev Bosco who is the resident pastor have reached out to me to support with fund raising. They humbly ask for your help to rebuild a place where faith grows, hope is restored, and love is lived out. Your support will help them keep the church school running, support women like Kevine and lay the foundation for a safe, enduring sanctuary.

It will restore a spiritual home for children and families like Kevine, reignite community service and compassion programs that do not met the eliglibity of other local charities.

Provide stability and continuity to a congregation struggling with church closure.

Every Donation Is a Seed of Hope

Your generosity will help restore more than a building, it will restore faith, community, and a future. Every contribution brings them closer to reopening their doors to a place where prayers rise, lives transformed, and hope renewed.

Thank you for standing with us.

May God bless you richly for your kindness.

More updates will come, Rev Bosco Habinshuti sends his greetings.

Many thanks

Barbara