The Archbishop of Kigali and President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, has said that Rwanda’s history clearly demonstrates how the media can either contribute to building society or destroy it when misused.
Cardinal Kambanda made the remarks on August 4, 2026, while officially opening the SIGNIS World Congress in Kigali, where he spoke about the power of the media in shaping society’s perceptions.
Media’s Role Before and After the 1994 Genocide
He recalled that before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, some media outlets were used to spread division and hatred, contributing to the escalation of acts of violence.
“It is unfortunate that the media was used to intensify divisions and incite hatred, contributing to the preparation of the Genocide, to the extent that it itself became one of the key actors involved,” he said.
Cardinal Kambanda said that following that painful history, Rwanda invested efforts in transforming the media into a tool for reconciliation, peacebuilding, and restoring trust among citizens.
“Since then, the media has increasingly become a tool for promoting unity, reconciliation, and peace,” he said.
Responsible Use of Technology and Social Media
He noted that today, technology and social media have increased the ability to reach large audiences within a short time, but stressed the importance of using them in ways that protect truth and human dignity.
Cardinal Kambanda called on communication professionals to use technology to promote peace, reconciliation, and good governance rather than using it to spread hatred, division, and misinformation.
“True communication must be based on human thought and conscience,” he said.
Kigali Hosts Historic SIGNIS World Congress
The SIGNIS World Congress held in Kigali is the first of its kind to take place on the African continent, providing Rwanda with an opportunity to share its experience in using media to promote peace and counter messages that spread division and false information.
The event brought together bishops, representatives of Catholic Church institutions, and various partners.
Congress Promotes Media Collaboration
Organisers said the congress will provide a platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening media networks, and sharing experiences, while also showcasing a new image of Africa.
SIGNIS is an international Catholic organisation that brings together communication professionals from more than 100 countries around the world.
