As preparations for the annual Charity Month continue, on 13th July 2026, Caritas Rwanda and representatives from all diocesan Caritas met in Huye to review past achievements, share successful experiences, and develop strategies to further strengthen community participation in this nationwide campaign of solidarity.
Opening the meeting, Fr. Oscar Kagimbura, Secretary General of Caritas Rwanda, reminded participants that the mission of Caritas goes beyond fundraising. “This meeting is an opportunity to remind ourselves of our responsibility as Caritas to put the Gospel into practice through concrete charity acts.” he said.
Fr. Kagimbura also reflected on Pope Francis’ document Dignitas Infinita, emphasizing that people living in poverty should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries of charitable assistance, but as partners in promoting human dignity and integral development.
Sharing experiences that inspire growth
Participants reviewed the results of the Charity Month campaign since its introduction in 1998 before exchanging experiences on approaches that have successfully increased local contributions.
One of the most remarkable testimonies came from the Butare Diocese, which increased its collections by 241%, growing from Rwf 3 millions to Rwf 10 millions.
Among the parish success stories, Mugombwa Parish shared how recognizing and motivating volunteers through appreciation events has strengthened their commitment to mobilizing communities. The parish also begins awareness campaigns in schools before the summer holidays to maximize participation.
Participants also discussed challenges affecting some parishes, including poor agricultural harvests, competing financial priorities among Christians, and limited understanding of Caritas’ mission. They agreed that continuous awareness-raising is essential to help communities understand the importance of supporting Caritas Rwanda’s humanitarian and social mission.
The meeting further highlighted the need for greater participation from some religious congregations that have the capacity to make stronger contributions.
Learning from diocesan Caritas best practices
Representatives from the Dioceses of Kabgayi, Gikongoro, Nyundo, and the Archdiocese of Kigali shared practical strategies that have contributed to improved campaign performance.
These included:
- Organizing meetings with parish priests to strengthen ownership of the campaign;
- Conducting charitable activities before fundraising to demonstrate Caritas’ mission in action;
- Mobilizing traders and business communities;
- Carrying out door-to-door awareness campaigns through Small Christian Communities;
- Sending personalized appeals to major contributors;
- Using volunteer teams to visit households and record contributions transparently;
- Publicly communicating collection results to build trust and accountability.
These experiences demonstrated that community engagement, transparency, and strong leadership significantly contribute to successful fundraising.
Supporting people affected by disasters
Fr. Kagimbura also explained how the funds collected during Charity and Mercy Month are distributed.
One quarter of the collections remains at the parish level, while the remaining amount is shared between the diocesan Caritas and Caritas Rwanda. The resources are used to support people affected by natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies both within Rwanda and, when needed, internationally.
A shared commitment to do more
Building on the success of last year’s campaign, which exceeded its target by achieving a 20 % increase in collections, participants agreed to set an even more ambitious goal for 2026 by increasing contributions by at least 25 % across all diocesan Caritas.
Closing the meeting, H.E. Bishop Jean Bosco Ntagungira, the guest of honor, pledged to actively support the Charity Month campaign, following the example already practiced in the Ruhengeri Diocese.
Encouraging participants to remain committed, H.E. Bishop Jean Bosco said: “We know the challenges you face. But do not lose courage.” He reminded participants that everyone has something to share, regardless of their financial situation, because there is always someone in greater need. According to him, giving is not only an act of charity but also a way of recognizing the dignity of both the giver and the receiver.
The meeting concluded with several recommendations, including strengthening parish Caritas structures, improving reporting systems, increasing awareness campaigns before the fundraising period, providing continuous training for parish Caritas committees, involving Church leaders at every level, and enhancing staff engagement. Together, these actions are expected to further strengthen the Charity and Mercy Month campaign and expand Caritas Rwanda’s capacity to serve the most vulnerable.