The Impact of the Presbyterian Church’s Initiatives on Christian-Muslim Relations in Post-Genocide Rwandan Society: A Case of Nyamirambo Sector, Kigali City.

Abstract

The initiatives of the Presbyterian Church on Christian-Muslim relations were launched in 1997 to promote cooperation, unity, mutual respect, and tolerance between Christians and Muslims in post-genocide Rwanda. This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives and their impact on Christian–Muslim relations in Rwandan society after the 1994 genocide. The objectives of the study were: to identify the historical relations between Christians and Muslims, to determine the contributions of various initiatives of the EPR, and to evaluate their impact on Christian–Muslim relations in post-genocide Rwanda. The study was guided by impact assessment theory. It adopted a qualitative approach, using a phenomenological research design to explore the occurrence under investigation. A non-probability sampling technique, specifically purposive sampling, was employed to select respondents, including Christians, Muslims, and their leaders. The target population was 55,315, with a sample size ranging between 5–25 respondents determined through saturation, alongside a similar number for questionnaires. Data collection instruments included open-ended questionnaires and interview guides. A total of 10 leaders from both faiths were interviewed, 50 open-ended questionnaires were administered, and one focus group discussion with 8 participants was conducted. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that historical relations between Christians and Muslims before the EPR initiatives were often characterized by disagreement, intolerance, mistrust, suspicion, hatred, and misunderstanding, though at times marked by mutual respect, particularly in the Nyamirambo Sector. With the introduction of EPR initiatives, relations improved significantly, becoming characterized by mutual respect, collaboration, tolerance, cooperation, and love. Initiatives such as interfaith dialogue, the creation of training centers, and sports activities contributed greatly to reshaping Christian–Muslim relations in Nyamirambo Sector, leading to notable social and religious impacts. The study concludes that Presbyterian Church initiatives should be reinforced by establishing additional training centers to reach more communities across Rwanda. Furthermore, collaboration between the government and the Church is essential to promote Christian–Muslim relations and to strengthen both social and religious impacts.