The name Kabgayi is deeply intertwined with the history of the Catholic Church in Rwanda. It is home to the country’s oldest diocese and the only "Minor Basilica" in both Rwanda and some neighboring Great Lakes countries. In historical records, the name is written in Latin as "Kabgayensis," emphasizing its significance within the Church.
Kabgayi has played a central role in Rwandan Catholicism, housing both the first minor seminary (Petit Seminaire Saint Léon Kabgayi) and the St. Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary, where philosophy is taught. The diocese also has a unique structure, with 31 parishes, more than any other in Rwanda, and has been led by eight bishops, the most in the country.
Kabgayi's establishment dates back to the era when missionary vicariates, including Kabgayi, were connected to other nations. The Kabgayi Vicariate began in 1912 and transitioned into a full diocese in 1959 under the leadership of various bishops. Over the years, it has been instrumental in the spread of the Catholic faith throughout Rwanda and continues to play a significant role in the country’s religious and cultural history. The Kabgayi Diocese is known not only for its religious importance but also for institutions like the Kabgayi Hospital, which specializes in eye care, and the Catholic Institute of Kabgayi (ICK).
Kabgayi remains a historical and spiritual hub in Rwanda, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Catholic Church in the region.
