Rwanda’s government has defended the ongoing closure of factories producing substandard alcoholic beverages, saying protecting citizens’ health remains more important than economic interests linked to businesses that violate safety regulations.
Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said the country will not allow any activity that puts the lives of Rwandans at risk, regardless of its contribution to employment or business revenues.
Speaking to Royal FM on Thursday, Makolo said the measures being taken against non-compliant alcohol producers are part of efforts to protect public health and prevent further loss of lives.
“Our first priority is to save lives. Citizens’ health comes first; this is not something that can be debated, and we will never put people’s lives at risk,” Makolo said.
She acknowledged that some people may have lost jobs following the closure of affected factories but stressed that the government’s responsibility is to ensure that citizens live in a safe and healthy environment.
Makolo said the government will continue creating opportunities for employment in sectors that comply with national laws and standards, including properly regulated industries.
“The government will continue creating opportunities for Rwandans to work in different sectors, including industries that are licensed and operate in accordance with the law,” she said.
The government’s position comes amid an intensified crackdown on unsafe alcoholic beverages, following reports of severe health consequences linked to their consumption.
Health authorities said that between January and July 2026, health facilities across the country treated more than 500 people who became ill after consuming unsafe alcohol. During the same period, 50 people died, more than 11,000 were admitted due to alcohol-related conditions, over 100 suffered permanent blindness and 20 children required dialysis.
As part of the response, Rwanda FDA has shut down 136 factories involved in producing or distributing substandard alcoholic beverages and suspended 52 imported alcohol brands.
The Rwanda National Police has also reported the seizure of more than 470,000 litres of ethanol in Kigali, which authorities say was being used by individuals and facilities to produce illicit alcoholic drinks.
Makolo said Rwanda will continue supporting legitimate businesses while ensuring that all industries operate within safety regulations aimed at protecting consumers and public health.
