Rwanda is stepping up efforts to curb the production and sale of unsafe alcoholic beverages after at least 50 people died and more than 100 others suffered serious health complications, including blindness, from consuming contaminated drinks this year.
The government says nearly 900,000 litres of illicit alcohol have been seized and destroyed in the first seven months of 2026, but officials warn that illegal production remains a major challenge affecting public health and social wellbeing.
Local Government Minister Dominique Habimana said on Wednesday that authorities were strengthening cooperation between government institutions, security agencies and local leaders to identify and prosecute those involved in producing and distributing substandard alcohol.
“The issue is not only about alcohol consumption but also about protecting the values and wellbeing of Rwandan society,” Habimana said during a national meeting on social welfare and security held in Kigali.
The meeting brought together district mayors, provincial officials, security agencies and representatives from different government ministries to discuss challenges affecting communities, including drug abuse and unsafe alcoholic drinks.
Health authorities have linked some cases of poisoning to drinks containing toxic substances such as methanol, which can damage the eyes, brain and other body organs.
Habimana said alcohol abuse was contributing to wider social problems, including family conflicts, school dropouts, child malnutrition and loss of employment opportunities.
Authorities have also warned that some local leaders could face investigation if found to have played a role in allowing the production or distribution of illegal alcoholic beverages.
The government recently introduced new regulations governing traditional drinks, including urwagwa, ikigage and ubushera. Producers who make such beverages for commercial purposes or serve them at large public events will now require official authorization, while drinks prepared for household consumption remain exempt.
The measures follow a series of incidents in which people became ill or died after consuming unsafe alcoholic products.
Rwanda has said the crackdown will combine stronger enforcement with public awareness campaigns aimed particularly at young people, as officials seek to reduce alcohol-related harm and promote healthier lifestyles.
