On September 29, 2025, an important meeting was held in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, to discuss a proposal to open a new Conventual Franciscan mission in that country. The proposed mission is an initiative of the friars of the Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Kenya.
Those participating in the discussion included His Eminence Cardinal Antoine KAMBANDA; the Minister Provincial of the Province of Kenya, Friar Hillary Omondi RADUK; and two members of his Provincial Definitory, Friars Kazimierz SZULC and Gifton Kiwo MBAYA. Also present were the Assistant General for the African Federation of Conventual Franciscans (AFCOF), Friar Blasio Ooko OLENGE; and the General Delegate for Mission Animation Friar Dariusz MAZUREK.
The meeting took place in a very positive atmosphere. Cardinal KAMBANDA gave a detailed account of the current social and pastoral situation in Rwanda. He highlighted the importance of peace and reconciliation, which are values central to the Franciscan charism. The discussion was constructive; moreover, the Cardinal stressed the need for the presence of religious communities in the country, which could make a significant contribution to the life of the Church and society.
One should note that on September 27, the friars entrusted this intention to Our Lady of Kibeho [Rwanda] and prayed for the possible opening of the new mission. The friars were welcomed and guided by the local community of Friars Minor in Kigali. The visiting friars were deeply grateful for the fraternal support and openness shown by the local community, in particular its Guardian, Friar Florent RUGIGANA, and all the friars of the Friars Minor Custody with whom they had the pleasure of meeting.
The friars ask everyone to pray that this proposed new Conventual Franciscan mission in Rwanda may be realized.
Friar Dariusz Robert MAZUREK, General Delegate for Mission Animation
