Rwanda Closes Over 8,000 Places of Worship in Major Crackdown on Health and Safety Violations as government claims

Rwanda has shut down over 8,000 churches and mosques this month for failing to meet health and safety standards, marking a significant enforcement of regulations set five years ago. This crackdown, conducted by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) in collaboration with local authorities, aims to ensure that places of worship adhere to safety, hygiene, and proper infrastructure requirements.

RGB Chief Executive Usta Kaitesi emphasized that the closures are meant to protect worshippers, highlighting issues such as churches operating in dilapidated structures, tents, and even caves, which pose significant safety risks. The law, introduced in 2018, requires places of worship to have proper infrastructure, soundproofing, and hygienic facilities, and mandates that religious leaders must undergo theological training.

Minister of Local Government Jean Claude Musabyimana noted that the enforcement is not intended to hinder religious practices but to ensure the safety and tranquillity of worshippers. He explained that the high number of places of worship, especially small Pentecostal churches, often lack the necessary permits and infrastructure, leading to their closure.

The RGB's operation follows a consultative meeting with the Rwanda Inter-religious Council, reminding faith-based organizations to comply with the law. Despite these efforts, many places of worship continued to operate in unsafe conditions, prompting the recent closures.