On October 17, 2025, BUFMAR celebrated its 50th anniversary since its founding. The event took place at the Kigali Marriott Hotel and was attended by BUFMAR members and partners.

Among the distinguished guests were several Catholic bishops, including His Eminence Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, Archbishop of Kigali and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Rwanda; Bishop Vincent Harolimana of Ruhengeri; Bishop Anaclet Mwumvaneza of Nyundo; and Bishop Célestin Hakizimana of Gikongoro.

The ceremony was also attended by senior leaders from various Christian denominations in Rwanda who played an important role in the establishment of BUFMAR, an organization dedicated to promoting health initiatives across the country.

The guest of honor was Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health, who conveyed a message from the First Lady of Rwanda, Mrs. Jeannette Kagame. He expressed her appreciation to BUFMAR for its outstanding contribution to improving the health and well-being of Rwandans over the past 50 years.

In her speech, Mrs. Monique Gahongayire, Executive Director of BUFMAR, said that the jubilee was an opportunity for reflectionto assess achievements and set new goals for the future.

Cardinal Kambanda, who also chairs BUFMAR’s Board of Directors, noted that this jubilee comes at a special moment, as the Catholic Church in Rwanda celebrates 125 years since the arrival of the Gospel in the country. He thanked all those who have supported BUFMAR’s mission to improve the health of Rwandans and to serve humanity.

The celebration concluded with an uplifting performance by the Inyamibwa cultural troupe, which entertained the guests and added a joyful atmosphere to the event as participants celebrated BUFMAR’s remarkable milestones.

Cardinal Kambanda and Minister Nsanzimana Lead BUFMAR’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in Kigali