Rwanda police clarifies nightclubs remain open, warns against alcohol-fuelled misconduct

By Prince Boris Cyubahiro.

Rwanda National Police has clarified that nightclubs, concerts, house parties and other entertainment activities remain permitted, but warned that excessive drinking, illicit alcohol and misconduct associated with intoxication will not be tolerated.

Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga made the clarification on Wednesday, August 19, amid an intensified nationwide campaign against substandard alcoholic beverages and behaviour authorities say is linked to excessive alcohol consumption.

Rutikanga said the campaign should not be interpreted as a ban on nightlife or entertainment. Instead, police are targeting unlawful and harmful conduct that may occur after people become intoxicated.

“Going out to dance is allowed. Nightclubs, gatherings, concerts and other entertainment activities are not prohibited. What we are fighting is what people do after they have had too much to drink. That is the problem we have,” he said.

The police spokesperson said officers have observed a connection between excessive alcohol consumption and incidents of violence, assault, domestic conflicts and other forms of disorder.

The Rwanda National Police has previously said that substandard alcoholic beverages, particularly illicit spirits commonly known as “ibyuma,” contribute to behaviour that undermines public safety. It has also warned that even legally produced alcohol becomes a concern when it is misused and results in harm or disorder.

Rutikanga said the reduction in alcohol-related misconduct is already reflected in falling crime levels, noting that cases of assault and bodily injury dropped by 50 percent within two weeks after authorities intensified the crackdown on substandard alcohol.

He said the decline has contributed to improved peace and security in communities.

“Everything has come as part of the effort to fight disorder and excessive drinking. In our daily work, we rarely find these incidents occurring when a person has not been drinking,” he said.

House parties remain permitted

Rutikanga also clarified that private gatherings, including house parties, are not prohibited.

People organising such events can invite friends and relatives to their homes or rented venues, but they are expected to notify relevant local authorities and neighbours and respect the applicable hours.

He warned that organisers and participants must also ensure that prohibited alcoholic beverages are not used and that gatherings do not result in disorder.

Rutikanga urged young people and other members of the public to enjoy legitimate entertainment while respecting regulations and avoiding conduct that could put themselves or others at risk.

The clarification comes as authorities broaden the campaign against the harmful effects of alcohol, with police also warning bars, nightclubs and other entertainment-venue operators that they have responsibilities for misconduct occurring on their premises.