Rwanda Cracks Down on Deadly Bootleg Alcohol After Dozens Die

The Ministry of Local Government said the government is committed to building a country free of beverages that endanger public health and warned that those who manufacture unsafe alcohol will face legal consequences.

Local Government Minister Dominique Habimana urged citizens not to support or shield producers of substandard drinks, saying the practice undermines both public health and national development.

“The production and distribution of substandard beverages has been going on for some time, but we have now strengthened our efforts,” Habimana said. “We want to build a country free from drinks that can harm the health of our people.”

Authorities said some victims suffered lasting disabilities, including hearing loss and blindness.

Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said law enforcement agencies have consistently pursued illegal brewers and distributors, citing serious health risks linked to the drinks. He noted that some producers attempt to increase the potency of their alcohol by adding dangerous substances.

“In the competition to make stronger alcohol, they end up using harmful ingredients,” he said.

Police plan to meet with licensed manufacturers to ensure compliance with safety standards and prevent unsafe products from reaching the market. Rutikanga said the government will not only issue licenses but also monitor producers to ensure integrity and quality control.

Officials acknowledged gaps in oversight at the local level and called for stronger awareness campaigns to help citizens identify approved beverages.

Health officials said some illegal brewers use methanol, a toxic chemical typically intended for industrial and medical purposes. “Anyone who uses methanol to make alcohol is essentially consuming poison,” a Health Ministry official said, adding that investigations are underway into how the substance is reaching illegal producers.