Kagame’s Crackdown: Over 5,600 Churches, Mosques Shutdown In Rwanda

In a sweeping move, the Rwandan government under President Paul Kagame has shut down more than 5,600 churches and mosques across the country.

The closures, which began in a two-week nationwide operation on July 29, were due to widespread non-compliance with safety and health regulations, such as inadequate soundproofing and the commercialization of worship centres.

Usta Kaitesi, Chief Executive of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), emphasize the importance of maintaining safety standards, stating: ”

This is a nationwide operation targeting churches that continue to violate the law. As the RGB, we are committed to ensuring that places of worship adhere to proper standards. The goal is for people to realize that these practices are not safe or healthy for worship.”

The law, introduced in 2018, mandates that worship centres operate in safe environments, restricts the use of loud public address systems, and requires theological training for preachers before establishing a church.

Kaitesi further expressed concerns for the safety of worshippers, adding: “Worshippers should not be exposed to hazardous conditions.

According to the beliefs of most Christians, God is omnipresent, so why should anyone risk their life inside a cave?”