The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has uncovered serious hygiene violations at some factories that were producing substandard alcoholic drinks, including washing beverage bottles with sticks and soap instead of using specialised cleaning equipment.

Health Minister Dr Sabin Nsanzimana has said Rwanda’s traditional alcoholic beverages should not be lumped together with the strong, substandard drinks known locally as “ibyuma,” arguing that traditional brews can be preserved while improving their hygiene and production standards.

The Rwanda National Police has warned food and beverage producers, processors and traders that ongoing quality inspections will extend beyond alcoholic drinks to other products on the market.

Cases involving assault and bodily injuries reported to security authorities have fallen by half since Rwanda intensified its crackdown on substandard alcoholic beverages, according to Rwanda National Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga.

Community health workers in Burera District are seeking bank financing to complete a hotel project they started in 2018, saying the facility could create jobs, generate income for its members and boost business in Butaro Sector.