Rwandan Government Closes Over 5,600 Churches

Religion plays a significant role in African culture, often serving as a refuge for those seeking answers and help, particularly in underdeveloped regions. In recent years, however, the growing number of churches has raised concerns. Critics argue that many of these places of worship prioritize financial gain over spiritual well-being and fail to ensure the safety and security of their congregants.

Rwanda, where Christianity is the dominant religion, has seen a significant increase in churches. Catholicism and Protestantism are the primary denominations, with 45% of the population identifying as Catholic and 35% as Protestant.

In an unprecedented move, the Rwandan government, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, recently shut down over 5,600 churches, including 100 cave churches. The closures were due to the failure of these establishments to comply with safety and health regulations, such as inadequate soundproofing and the transactional nature of their operations. According to The New Times, a Rwandan media outlet, the action was part of a two-week nationwide crackdown led by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) that began on July 29.

Usta Kaitesi, Chief Executive of RGB, explained that many of the affected churches lacked basic infrastructure, proper hygiene, and safety standards. Additionally, some were operating without legal authorization. Kaitesi emphasized that the government’s efforts are focused on ensuring that places of worship adhere to the law and prioritize the safety of their congregants.

“This ongoing nationwide operation targets churches that remain non-compliant with the law,” Kaitesi stated during an interview on the public broadcaster RBA. “We are committed to enforcing proper standards in places of worship. This is not just a legal issue; it’s about protecting the lives of worshippers. Worshippers should not be exposed to hazards. According to Christian faith, God is omnipresent, so why should worshippers risk their lives inside unsafe structures, such as caves?”

The closures are rooted in a 2018 law that mandates places of worship to operate in a safe and organized environment. The law also prohibits the use of loud public address systems and requires all preachers to have theological training before establishing a church. This is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and tranquility of worshippers. Since the law’s enactment, this is the most extensive crackdown on non-compliant churches. In 2018, when the legislation first came into effect, 700 churches were shut down.

President Kagame has maintained that Rwanda does not need an excessive number of houses of worship, arguing that such a high concentration of churches is only sustainable in more developed economies. Kagame, who recently secured a fourth term in office with over 99% of the vote, leads a tightly controlled society where critics say there is little room for free speech.

Despite the government’s efforts, RGB’s Kaitesi noted that dilapidated structures and unhygienic conditions still persist in some places of worship. While Pentecostal churches led by charismatic pastors continue to attract large crowds with promises of miracles and prophecies, others remain small, poorly built, and lacking proper planning approval.

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