Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) Deputy Secretary General Stephen Gasana has called for stronger community action against drug abuse and substandard alcoholic beverages, warning that the practices threaten Rwanda’s efforts to build a capable and responsible citizenry.

Authorities in Rulindo and Gatsibo districts have stepped up the crackdown on illicit alcohol, destroying tens of thousands of litres of substandard alcoholic drinks seized from illegal producers and traders.

Kigali’s Car Free Day on Sunday put a spotlight on the dangers of substandard alcoholic beverages, with participants urged to avoid drinks that fail to meet safety and quality standards.

Kigali Industrial Park is seeking a government permit to build a parking facility for up to 400 trucks in Masoro, Gasabo District, after the project remained stalled for about three years.

Rwanda’s Investigation Bureau (RIB) has closed the section of Sina Gerard’s factory responsible for producing alcoholic beverages, including Akarusho, following concerns over the quality of drinks manufactured there.