Nurses and midwives respond to Paul Gitwaza sermon controversy

Rwanda’s nurses and midwives have responded to remarks made by Apostle Dr. Paul Gitwaza during a sermon in August that sparked criticism after excerpts of the teaching circulated widely on social media.

The Rwanda Nurses and Midwives Union (RNMU), which represents professionals in the sector, said it regretted remarks made by Gitwaza during a teaching delivered at Zion Temple on August 7, 2026, saying they were perceived as disrespectful to nurses and midwives.

The comments became a subject of public discussion after video clips from the sermon resurfaced online in early October.

Gitwaza warned parents about people handling newborn babies and referred to some nurses and midwives in terms that were interpreted as associating them with witchcraft.

The controversy prompted engagement between representatives of the nursing and midwifery profession and the leadership of Authentic Word Ministries/Zion Temple Celebration Center (AWM/ZTCC).

On October 7, AWM/ZTCC issued a statement signed by Gitwaza apologising to nurses, midwives and others who had been hurt by the message.

The church said it became aware on October 6 that clips from the August teaching were circulating on social media.

The church said it had never intended to undermine or disrespect nurses, midwives or any other profession, but acknowledged that the language used had caused pain and concern.

“Therefore, we sincerely apologise to nurses and midwives and to everyone affected by the message,” the church said.

RNMU subsequently acknowledged the apology and said it appreciated the step taken by Zion Temple following discussions between the two sides.

The union’s position is significant because it represents nurses and midwives and advocates for their professional image, welfare and development.

According to its official website, RNMU's mission includes protecting the professional image of nurses and midwives, improving their working conditions and supporting their professional development.

The union has also continued to conduct professional training and advocacy activities across Rwanda, including programmes focused on clinical skills, disability inclusion, labour standards and leadership.

AWM/ZTCC said it respected nurses and midwives for their dedication, professionalism and contribution to saving lives, supporting families and improving the health and wellbeing of communities.

The church also said it had previously worked with health professionals, including nurses, through its health and community development initiatives.

The dispute now appears to be moving towards dialogue rather than confrontation.

AWM/ZTCC said its discussions with representatives of nurses and midwives had produced an agreement to continue efforts aimed at strengthening understanding, cooperation and trust.

Gitwaza also acknowledged the broader responsibility carried by religious leaders, saying the episode was a reminder that those with public influence should exercise it with wisdom, humility and respect for every person and profession.

Gitwaza is the senior leader of AWM/ZTCC and has been a prominent figure in Rwanda’s Pentecostal Christian community for many years.

His church held its August 7-9, 2026 gathering at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village, where the teaching at the centre of the controversy was delivered.

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