Since late July 2026, the Rwandan government has intensified measures against substandard alcoholic drinks, including locally known spirits referred to as “ibyuma,” by shutting down factories producing them.
As an initial step, the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) suspended the importation of ethanol, a chemical used in manufacturing these beverages.
Investigations found that some factories were using improperly refined ethanol to increase the alcohol content of their products, making them dangerous to consumers’ health.
The government stated that since January 2026, these alcoholic beverages have caused the deaths of 50 people, left another 100 blind, and contributed to alcohol addiction among more than 11,000 people.
As of August 6, 2026, Rwanda FDA had shut down 148 factories producing the beverages. The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) also revoked the operating licenses of those factories.
Speaking to Royal FM, Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo explained that weaknesses in the inspection system had allowed producers of substandard products to operate for a long time, resulting in serious public health consequences.
Makolo said the government has now adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward the production of substandard goods.
She added that investigations are ongoing and that anyone found responsible for allowing harmful alcoholic beverages to remain on the market will be held accountable, whether they are private operators or public officials.
Makolo confirmed that several people have already been arrested, although she noted that law enforcement and judicial authorities will provide more detailed information as investigations continue.
“There are people who have been arrested. I believe that today or sometime this week we will receive more detailed information. Investigations are underway to identify everyone who should be held accountable, both in the private sector and within government institutions. More information will be released as the investigations continue and law enforcement agencies carry out their work,” she said.
Addressing the Economic Impact
Responding to concerns about traders and workers affected by the closure of the factories, Makolo said the government is considering ways to address the economic consequences.
However, she stressed that those who deliberately produced substandard products must bear responsibility for the consequences of their actions.
Regarding workers who may lose their jobs because of the factory closures, Makolo said protecting public health must come first and that dangerous businesses cannot be allowed to continue simply to preserve employment.
She said government programs will continue to help citizens find employment opportunities in lawful industries.
“The first priority is to save people’s lives. Citizens’ lives come before everything else. There can be no negotiation or compromise when it comes to protecting people’s lives,” she said.
“Beyond that, we will continue implementing various government programs to help Rwandans find employment in other sectors, including industries that comply with the law.”
Makolo added that relevant institutions will continue working with citizens to help them secure jobs outside industries that threaten public health and harm families and society.
“Helping young people find jobs remains one of our top priorities. We must strengthen those efforts, but that should never become an excuse for allowing harmful activities to continue. Anyone involved in activities that damage society must be stopped,” she said.
The Government Spokesperson also urged Rwandans to consume alcohol responsibly and to ensure that alcoholic beverages are kept away from anyone under the age of 18. She reminded the public that even legally produced alcohol can be harmful if consumed irresponsibly.
