The Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Mussa Sindayigaya, has commended Paul Kagame for restoring dignity and equal status to Muslims, highlighting a major shift from past discrimination to full national inclusion.
Speaking during engagement with the President held on 25 march at BK Arena, Mufti Sindayigaya expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the Muslim community, noting that they are no longer subjected to derogatory labels such as “Swahili,” which once marginalized them.
In his remarks, the Mufti reflected on the transformation that has taken place since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, emphasizing that Muslims are now treated equally alongside other citizens.
“We are no longer called ‘Swahili’ or treated differently,” he said. “Today, we are recognized as full citizens of Rwanda, unlike in previous regimes where we were sidelined and denied equal value.”
The Mufti further underscored the strong bond between the Muslim community and President Kagame, attributing it to the liberation struggle he led and the unity and reconciliation that followed.
He noted that Muslims are now actively represented across key sectors, including government leadership, Parliament, the armed forces, and national development programs.
Quoting a well known principle, he added, “One who does not thank people cannot thank God,” before expressing appreciation for the inclusive leadership that has empowered Muslims to contribute meaningfully to national progress.
Beyond social inclusion, the Mufti highlighted practical improvements, particularly in facilitating the pilgrimage to Mecca.
He praised the availability of direct flights by RwandAir, which have significantly eased travel for pilgrims and demonstrated care for citizens.
Testimonies from community members echoed similar sentiments.
Businessman Hadji Issa Hakizimana, founder of Visit Rwanda Issa Coffee in Nyamirambo, credited good governance for his growth, noting that Muslims now face no barriers in employment, education, or entrepreneurship.
Similarly, entrepreneur Hadjat Mukarubega Zulfat pointed to security as the cornerstone of her success. From humble beginnings after the Genocide, she built a thriving enterprise that culminated in the establishment of a university, attributing her journey to a stable and inclusive environment.
She also praised efforts to empower women, noting their growing role in national development.
Addressing the gathering, President Kagame acknowledged the country’s past challenges while emphasizing the responsibility to build a more inclusive future.
“Muslims in Rwanda once faced exclusion and were often treated as part of another group of Rwandans (Tutsi), as you know our history,” he said.
“However, this is something we are working hard to overcome today. Equality should not be something that earns praise; it is a basic right that must be respected for everyone. As we move forward, Muslims, like all Rwandans, have a vital role to play in contributing to the unity, development, and progress of our country.”He added.
The event, held under the theme “Celebrating good governance that restored our dignity and ensured freedom of worship,” reflected a broader narrative of transformation one in which inclusion, security, and opportunity continue to shape Rwanda’s development journey.
Pichou Byiringiro/The kaminuza star