Health Minister Dr Sabin Nsanzimana has raised alarm over the dangers of illicit alcohol known as “ibyuma”, revealing that some products labelled as containing 40 per cent alcohol have been found to contain up to 90 per cent alcohol.
The minister said some of these beverages are made with harmful substances that pose serious risks to consumers’ health, urging Rwandans, especially young people, to avoid them completely.
Dr Nsanzimana made the remarks on August 4, 2026, during a dialogue with members of Rwanda’s creative industry, where he called on artists to use their influence to promote healthy lifestyles and discourage substance abuse.
“Someone may drink a glass of wine with 12 per cent alcohol, but another person may consume ‘icyuma’ labelled 40 per cent when it actually contains 90 per cent. We have tested some and found they contain dangerous heavy chemicals,” he said.
He warned that continued consumption of such products could result in severe health complications, adding that there is no place for unregulated alcohol in Rwanda.
“There is no need for ‘icyuma’ in Rwanda,” Dr Nsanzimana said.
The minister also reminded artists that their work has a major impact on society, particularly among young people, and encouraged them to protect their health by avoiding alcohol and drug abuse.
He highlighted the therapeutic role of music in improving mental wellbeing, noting that healthcare providers are increasingly using music as part of support for people facing mental health challenges.
“Music is now among the things we use in treating people; it truly heals,” he said.
Dr Nsanzimana said artists cannot effectively spread messages of hope and positivity while struggling with substance abuse themselves, urging them to become examples of responsible behaviour.
The Ministry of Health reported that between January and July 2026, more than 500 people received medical treatment after consuming harmful alcohol products. The cases included 50 deaths, more than 100 people who lost their eyesight permanently, and 20 children currently receiving kidney dialysis, while thousands more developed alcohol-related health complications.
