Crackdown Closes Nearly 200 Churches in Musanze for Non-Compliance

By The Inspirer writer.

Local authorities, in conjunction with the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), have closed 185 churches in Musanze District for failing to meet the required standards. This action is part of a nationwide crackdown initiated by the government on Monday, July 29, aimed at eliminating faith-based organizations that do not comply with the 2018 law regulating the organization and functioning of churches.

In 2018, authorities suspended the activities of 714 churches in various parts of Kigali for similar reasons. Many places of worship were found lacking basic infrastructure, proper hygiene and safety standards, and had issues related to their legal status.

Usta Kayitesi, the Chief Executive Officer of RGB, explained to The New Times that the latest crackdown was prompted by observed irregularities in several churches. The government had previously given church leaders five years to make the necessary adjustments, but many have not complied.

“We are looking at the compliance part of the law together with the Ministry of Local Government. This has led to the closure of many churches across the country due to non-compliance,” Kayitesi told The New Times. “The crackdown should have begun in September last year (2023), but we decided to extend until August this year.”

The law governing faith-based organizations requires, among other things, obtaining legal personality, ensuring lead preachers have minimum required qualifications, and conducting activities in safe or suitable facilities. Kayitesi emphasized the government’s stance against the proliferation of substandard places of worship, highlighting ongoing issues with dilapidated structures and unhygienic conditions.

Additionally, Kayitesi noted that many faith-based organization leaders still lack appropriate religious studies credentials, as mandated by the law. While it is unclear how many more churches will be affected, closures have also been reported in Karongi, Rubavu, and Gicumbi districts.

A reverend from the Association of Pentecostal Churches in Rwanda (ADEPR), speaking anonymously, revealed that the Ruhondo Parish saw 14 out of its 15 churches closed. Similarly, Ururembo Parish experienced the closure of 70 churches, reportedly without prior warning from local government or the Rwanda Inter-religious Council (RIC).

The reverend called for dialogue between authorities and church leaders, acknowledging that while some provisions of the law have been considered, challenges remain that require government support to address.

This recent wave of closures underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring all faith-based organizations adhere to established standards, prioritizing safety and compliance for the benefit of congregants.

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