Paul Gitwaza apologises to nurses and midwives over sermon remarks

Apostle Dr. Paul Gitwaza, the founder and senior pastor of Authentic Word Ministries (AWM) and Zion Temple Celebration Center (ZTCC), has apologised to nurses, midwives and others who felt offended by remarks made during a sermon that later circulated widely on social media.

In a statement issued on October 7, 2026, AWM/ZTCC said it became aware on October 6 of a video showing part of a teaching delivered by Gitwaza on August 7.

The remarks drew criticism after some viewers interpreted them as disparaging the nursing and midwifery professions.

Gitwaza said he had no intention of insulting, undermining or devaluing nurses, midwives or any other profession.

However, he acknowledged that the wording used in the teaching could have hurt people and caused concern.

“Therefore, we sincerely apologise to nurses and midwives and to everyone affected by the message,” the statement quoted Gitwaza as saying.

The church said it holds nurses and midwives in high regard, praising their professionalism, dedication and contribution to saving lives, supporting families and improving public health.

AWM/ZTCC also said it had previously worked with health professionals, including nurses, through programmes linked to its community health and development activities.

The church said the controversy had prompted discussions with representatives of nurses and midwives, during which it expressed regret over what had happened.

According to the statement, both sides agreed to continue dialogue and pursue initiatives aimed at strengthening understanding, cooperation and trust between the church, health professionals and the wider community.

Gitwaza also said the episode had served as a reminder of the responsibility carried by religious leaders and institutions, particularly the need to exercise influence with wisdom, humility and respect for people and their professions.

Gitwaza is one of Rwanda’s prominent Pentecostal and evangelical church leaders.

AWM’s official website identifies him as the founder of Authentic Word Ministries and senior pastor of Zion Temple Celebration Center, describing him as a preacher, author and philanthropist who has served as a spiritual leader in Rwanda for more than two decades.

AWM says its ministry operates through two principal arms: ZTCC, which focuses on its spiritual mission, and the Authentic Development Agency, which works in areas including health, education, economic development, gender equality and humanitarian assistance.

Rwanda’s Official Gazette lists GITWAZA MUHIRWA Paul as the legal representative of Authentic Word Ministries/Zion Temple Celebration Center, a registered faith-based organisation headquartered in Kicukiro.

The church has also been involved in community health initiatives.

Bethsaida Health Center, associated with AWM/ZTCC, treated 14,899 patients in 2025, including people seeking maternal-health and HIV-related services.

AWM/ZTCC said it would continue promoting the Gospel of Jesus Christ while emphasising love, unity, reconciliation and service to the community.

Photos

Apostle Dr. Paul Gitwaza.