The 21^st Annual Rwanda Prayer Banquet convened in Washington D.C. on Saturday, February 5, 2023. The event brought together over 300 Rwandans and Friends of Rwanda from various nations, including Rwanda, the United States, Canada, Burundi, Burkina Faso, Gabon, and beyond.  This year’s theme came from Isaiah 62:1-2: “And her salvation as a lamp that burns. The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and all Kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name, Which the mouth of the Lord will name.”

Apostle Mignone Alice Kabera, one of the keynote speakers and founder of Women Foundation Ministries, emphasized the significance of rededicating the country to God and the impact Christians can have on their communities and the country by coming together in support of their leaders. She drew upon the example of Aaron and Hur in the Bible to emphasize the responsibility of good people and the importance of supporting leaders.

Darlingston Johnson, Bishop of HIM-U, spoke about the importance of faith in the greatness of God and the power of prayer. He shared how his visit to  Rwanda  inspired him with hope for  Africa  and encouraged others to believe that “if Rwanda can do it, we can do it too”

Ambassador of Rwanda in Washington D.C. Mathilde Mukantabana referenced Psalm 29:11, acknowledging the mighty presence of the Lord in providing strength and peace to his people. She also noted the transformation of Rwanda and how it continues to be blessed with fortitude and serenity. She stated “Your prayers lend support to the vision of the nation, acting like a tailwind that propels its efforts forward […] ensuring its steadfastness and resilience.”

High Commissioner of Rwanda to Ghana, Dr. Aissa Kirabo Kacyira, drew upon the remarks of President Paul Kagame during the recent National Prayer Breakfast held in Kigali and emphasized the importance of having a burden for one’s country to be a good patriot and serve it better. She lauded the unity of the Rwandan community in the United States and called for it to be upheld. “We must build in the same spirit of unity fighting against anything that could ever again divide us” she added.

The Chairman of Rwanda Leaders Fellowship, Ndahiro Moses, thanked like-minded organizations for their efforts in advancing God’s kingdom in Rwanda. He praised their generosity in providing clean water to needy families and encouraged them to do more.

Ambassador Charles and Rosette Murigande dedicated the leadership and people of Rwanda to God and issued a call to action for all attendees, urging them to dedicate their works to God to be able to carry out their responsibilities with greater purpose, guidance, and strength.

Ms. Antoinette Kanyabutembo, the founder of the Rwanda Prayer Banquet-USA conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support, presence, and contributions. She implored the crowd to remain steadfast in their prayers for the greater good of Rwanda and to stay united.

The 21st Annual Rwanda Prayer Banquet-USA was filled with praise, worship, and Rwandan cultural performances.

The purpose of the event remains steadfast – to offer prayers for Rwanda, its leaders, and citizens, and to foster unity, faith, and love.