Pope appoints Father Jean Bosco Ntagungira as new Bishop of Butare Diocese

Born on April 3, 1964, in Kigali, Bishop-elect Ntagungira began his spiritual journey in the Kigali minor seminary, followed by the Rutongo preparatory seminary. He pursued advanced studies in philosophy and theology at the Nyakibanda major seminary, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to the Catholic Church.

Ordained as a priest on August 1, 1993, for the Archdiocese of Kigali, he initially served as the prefect of studies at the Ndera minor seminary.

His academic excellence led him to the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome, where he earned a doctorate in canon law.

Following his return to Rwanda, he took on several key roles, including chancellor of the Archdiocese of Kigali and president of the diocesan Commission for Missions and Ecumenism.

In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Ntagungira served as rector of the Saint Vincent minor seminary in Ndera and held a crucial role at the Interdiocesan Ecclesiastical Tribunal of Kigali. Most recently, he was the parish priest of Regina Pacis in Kigali.

Bishop Philippe Rukamba, who has led the Butare Diocese for over two decades, leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service.

He held the position since he was appointed Bishop on January 18, 1997.

His episcopal ordination took place on April 12 of the same year.