We are pleased to announce that Father General Arturo Sosa, SJ, has appointed Fr. Fabien Gasigwa, SJ, as the first Provincial of the newly created Jesuit Province of Rwanda-Burundi.

This historic appointment marks a significant moment for the Society of Jesus in the Continent of Africa, as Rwanda-Burundi transitions from a Jesuit Region to a full Province within the global Jesuit Order.

Fr. Fabien, who has been serving as the Regional Superior since 4 January 2021, entered the Society of Jesus in 1993 and was ordained to the priesthood in 2006. Over the years, he has offered leadership in various capacities including as assistant to the Regional Superior, Treasurer, and Superior of the Centre Christus Community (2012–2015). His depth of experience and service to the mission of the Society prepare him well for this new responsibility.

The Rwanda-Burundi Province, officially established as a Jesuit Region on 25 March 1999, is now the newest Province in the Society of Jesus. Prior to this, Rwanda and Burundi were part of the Central African Province alongside the Democratic Republic of Congo. Today, the Province has more than 90 Jesuits, with aproximately 65 still in formation; a hopeful sign of a vibrant and growing mission.

The Jesuit presence in Rwanda dates back to 1952, following repeated invitations by King Mutara III Rudahigwa. The Jesuits first founded a secondary school in Kabgayi, before being relocated to Usumbura (now Bujumbura, Burundi) in 1955 by the Belgian colonial administration. There, they established what became the renowned Lycée du Saint-Esprit.

Their return to Rwanda in the 1960s led to the founding of Cyangugu Novitiate (1966), Centre Christus in Kigali (1972), and later, the Urumuri Centre (1980). Their educational apostolate continues to grow with a full academic complex in Kigali, comprising a nursery, primary, and secondary school established between 2008 and 2021.

In Burundi, the Jesuits expanded their mission through higher education, social action, and pastoral ministry. In 1960, they founded the Faculties of Humanities and Social and Economic Sciences, which later formed part of the University of Burundi. Their legacy includes development projects and pastoral work in Kiriri, Vugizo, Mubimbi, and Gitega. Today, Jesuits in Burundi operate the Service Yezu Mwiza, a center for those living with HIV/AIDS, and work with Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) to accompany displaced people in the region.

The Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM), President Fr. José Minaku, SJ, is calling us to unite in prayer for Fr. Fabien Gasigwa, SJ, and the Jesuits of the Rwanda-Burundi Province as they continue to build a future rooted in faith, committed to justice, and open to hope.

The Universal Society of Jesus gives thanks to the Lord for Fr. Fabien and entrust him to God's grace as he leads the new Province in wisdom, discernment, and charity.

As the leadership transition unfolds, we invite all to accompany Fr. Fabien and the Jesuits of Rwanda-Burundi in prayer, that they may continue to grow in their mission of faith, justice, and reconciliation.