Founded in 1995, the Impanda Choir emerged in the aftermath of Rwanda’s darkest period—the genocide against the Tutsi. With the nation grieving and its people enduring profound emotional wounds, a small group of 15 members began singing at the Pentecostal Church of Rwanda – SGEEM, within its prayer room. This humble gathering grew into the Impanda Choir, named after the sound of a trumpet that calls individuals to repentance, healing, and hope through music and God’s Word.
The choir’s founders envisioned it as a vessel for God’s work, committed to inviting people to salvation and encouraging spiritual transformation. The name “Impanda” holds deep significance, representing a call to guide and remind people to live righteously.
Initially, the choir performed songs from hymnals commonly used by ADEPR (Association of Pentecostal Churches in Rwanda), before venturing into composing original songs grounded in biblical teachings. These heartfelt compositions, delivered with prayer and love, have deeply resonated with audiences for three decades. Today, the choir boasts over 146 active members and has welcomed more than 300 singers since its inception.
With members from various walks of life—including those who moved abroad, relocated for work or studies, or passed away—the Impanda Choir’s music remains a source of comfort, faith, and inspiration. Its melodies and messages continue to guide listeners toward following Jesus Christ. Many songs written by talented members have touched lives at events, churches, schools, and even homes, leading individuals to accept faith, gain strength, or overcome loneliness.
Impanda Choir has so far released three audio albums and two video albums. Its evangelistic missions across Rwanda remain a cornerstone of its activities, often responding to invitations from choirs, church leaders, and government institutions. Notable outreach missions include:
- A 2014 outreach at Nasho Island, Kirehe District.
- A 2023 outreach at Nkombo Island.
- Evangelical missions in Mageragere prison.
Beyond music, the choir is also recognized for its charitable initiatives, such as:
- Installing electricity in an orphanage village in Kinyinya sector.
- Renovating a church in Rushubi under Muhoza region.
- Providing musical equipment to assist other choirs.
Over the years, Impanda Choir has been led by several dedicated leaders, including Pastor Habimana Charles (the first president), Late Makembera Anastase, Ndatabagabo Alexis, Vumiliya Marie Claire, Rusatira Emmanuel, Zabanyinshi Jean Baptiste, Niyigena Louis, Rulindabake Emmanuel, and Murenzi Odette (its current leader). Each leader has played a pivotal role in preserving the choir’s mission of spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ both near and far.
Despite facing challenges such as the loss of beloved members, including the passing of Makembera Anastase in 2022, and struggles with financial resources, the choir’s journey has been marked by faith, prayer, and resilience. Supported by the church, they’ve overcome obstacles to continue their evangelical efforts.
To celebrate its 30th anniversary, Impanda Choir is organizing a special four-day “Impanda Edot Concert” from August 21–24, 2025. Centered on the theme from John 15:27—"And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning”—this event will showcase the choir’s inspiring history through songs, testimonies, and preaching.
Derived from the Hebrew word “Edot,” meaning “testimony,” the concert emphasizes the importance of sharing personal experiences and encounters with God. A highlight will be the recording of audio and video performances on the event’s third day, enabling the choir’s music to reach those unable to attend. The finale, the grand "EDOT CONCERT," will unite music, heartfelt testimonies, and preaching to honor the choir’s legacy and glorify God.
Looking toward the future, Impanda Choir is dedicated to expanding its ministry through initiatives like:
- Recruiting and mentoring passionate new singers for its evangelical mission.
- Creating more scripture-inspired songs and digitizing existing ones for wider accessibility.
- Stepping up evangelism efforts nationally and internationally.
- Providing guidance to individuals accepting Christ through their outreach.
- Developing projects aimed at supporting vulnerable populations.
As Impanda Choir marks its 30-year journey, members express profound gratitude to God for His guidance and blessings throughout their mission. They also extend heartfelt thanks to ADEPR, SGEEM, and partners for continuous support, saying, “We appreciate our nation, ADEPR Church, its leaders, SGEEM, and all our collaborators. May God reward you abundantly and grant you peace.”
Impanda Choir expresses gratitude to God for being by their side throughout 30 years of evangelism.