The Catholic Diocese of Ruhengeri has confirmed the death of Mgr. Visent Barugahare, one of Rwanda’s longest-serving priests, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 77.
According to an official statement issued by Bishop Vincent Harolimana, the head of the Ruhengeri Diocese, Mgr. Barugahare died at King Faisal Hospital in Kigali, where he had been receiving treatment.
“The Catholic Diocese of Ruhengeri deeply regrets to inform the Episcopal Conference, the clergy, religious communities, and all faithful of the passing of Mgr. Visent Barugahare,” the statement reads.
Mgr. Barugahare was ordained a Catholic priest on June 29, 1975, becoming the 247th priest to be ordained in Rwanda. He devoted 50 years of his life to pastoral ministry, serving the Church with humility, commitment, and a strong sense of duty.
Born in 1948 in Nyarurema Parish—now part of the Diocese of Byumba—Mgr. Barugahare played a vital role in the spiritual and academic formation of young men, particularly during his years at Saint John’s Minor Seminary in Nkumba. Many of his former students described him as a father figure, mentor, and counselor who shaped their character and spiritual values.
“He taught with discipline, compassion, and wisdom,” one former seminarian recalled. “He left a lasting legacy in the lives of many.”
As the Church in Rwanda mourns the loss of one of its most dedicated servants, tributes continue to pour in from those whose lives were touched by Mgr. Barugahare’s ministry and mentorship.
