📘 Biography of Bishop Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi

First Bishop of the Diocese of Butare (1961–1997)

Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi was born in 1920 in Kaduha, located in the former Vicariate Apostolic of Urundi. He was a member of the Banyiginya clan, from the Bakobwa lineage, and the son of Chief Jean-Berchmans Manzi. His family was influential in Rwandan society, and his brother, Michel Kayihura, also held a leadership role.

🏫 Formation and Priesthood

Gahamanyi entered the Petit Séminaire Saint Léon de Kabgayi in 1936, and later continued his theological studies at the Grand Séminaire de Nyakibanda. He was ordained a priest on August 15, 1951, and served in various parishes and educational institutions, including teaching at the minor seminary in Kabgayi. He also pursued further studies at Lovanium University in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

✝️ Episcopal Appointment and Consecration

On September 11, 1961, Pope John XXIII established the Diocese of Astrida (now Butare) and appointed Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi as its first bishop. He was consecrated on January 6, 1962, by Archbishop André Perraudin of Kabgayi, assisted by Bishop José Mikararanga Busimba of Goma and Bishop André Makarakiza of Ngozi.

His episcopal motto was In Caritate et Pace (“In Charity and Peace”), reflecting his commitment to reconciliation, pastoral care, and unity.

🕊️ Leadership and Legacy

Bishop Gahamanyi led the Diocese of Butare for 35 years, overseeing its growth in parishes, schools, seminaries, and social services. He participated in all four sessions of the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), contributing to the global renewal of the Church.

Under his leadership, Butare became a center of theological formation and Catholic education in Rwanda. He was known for his gentle leadership, deep spirituality, and dedication to building a Church rooted in peace and charity.

He also served briefly as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Gikongoro from 1994 to 1995, during a time of national crisis and pastoral need.

🕯️ Retirement and Death

Bishop Gahamanyi resigned from his episcopal office on January 2, 1997, and was succeeded by Bishop Philippe Rukamba. He passed away on June 19, 1999, at the age of 79, and is remembered as a foundational figure in the Rwandan Church.