Reverend Emmanuel Sinzohagera has been elected Bishop of the United Methodist Church for the newly established Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area. This election occurred during a recent special session of the Africa Central Conference, where he received 48 out of 60 votes on the first ballot. His consecration took place on March 16, 2025.
The United Methodist Church has a significant history in Burundi, contributing to the nation’s socio-economic progress through schools, hospitals, and community programs. This church has acted as a source of hope, delivering essential services and fostering community resilience.
Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera, aged 50, brings substantial experience to his new position. He is the inaugural bishop elected by the central conference, which is set to divide into the East Africa and Southern Africa central conferences. His extensive service within the United Methodist Church includes over fifteen years as a pastor in Kabezi, Gatumba, and Rohero. He also served as the Bujumbura District Superintendent for five years. In 2021, he was chosen as the legal representative for the Burundi Conference and later became dean of superintendents, a role he reprised in 2023. He also initiated an annual revival within the Burundi Conference to promote spiritual renewal. Furthermore, he founded the Burundi United Methodist Development Agency, highlighting his focus on community development. Notably, he also served as the Speaker of the Senate of the Republic of Burundi, the third-highest office in the country.
Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera is a graduate of Africa University with multiple degrees in finance, business administration, theology, and holds master’s and doctorate degrees. His dedication to spiritual growth, social justice, and the church’s mission has been evident throughout his ministry.
Upon his election, Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera expressed gratitude and commitment, stating, “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by the delegates of the Central Conference. My vision is to bring the body of Christ closer to God by fostering love, peace, and reconciliation. We will strengthen our witness, expand our outreach, and deepen our impact on the lives of the people we serve. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant and transformative church.”
As Bishop, Emmanuel Sinzohagera will provide spiritual and pastoral leadership, and administrative oversight to the United Methodist Church within the new Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area. He will represent the church nationally and internationally, and play a key role in its governance and direction. He is to serve for life, barring retirement, reassignment, or other circumstances.