Situated on a hill close to the Rugenge cell, Sainte-Famille Church is a notable landmark within downtown Kigali. Constructed when Rwanda was under German colonial rule in 1913, this red brick building with its white facade panels houses not only a parish church but also a visitor centre, clinic, primary school, and driving school.

The church's history is marked by tragedy; it served as a refuge for thousands during the Rwandan genocide of 1994. However, many who sought safety here were killed following the death of President Juvénal Habyarimana. Witnesses have alleged that the priest in charge at the time facilitated the killings by allowing militia to remove individuals from the church.

Years later, Father Antoine Kambanda admitted that some members of the Catholic Church had been involved in the violence, despite efforts by others to protect those in danger.