In 2018, the Rwandan government introduced a series of regulations that aimed to standardize the operation of places of worship in the country. The new regulations, while presented as measures to improve health and safety, triggered a widespread wave of church closures. In a short period of time, more than 7,000 places of worship were closed due to alleged health hazards, inadequate sanitation, lack of security, and excessive noise.

Additional requirements were also introduced for churches to meet, including restrictions on the activities of pastors and a requirement for religious leaders to obtain a theological degree. The new regulations also required greater financial transparency. While many congregations were immediately closed, others were given a five-year period to comply with the restrictions.
Since July this year, Rwandan authorities have been stepping up their enforcement efforts. The Rwanda Governing Council, which oversees places of worship, inspected 14,000 houses of worship. The surprising result was that as many as 70 percent of the churches surveyed did not meet established standards, leading to their closure. The main allegations included lack of registration, building code violations, poor health and safety standards, and misuse of funds and members.

The biggest losses were suffered by small, independent Pentecostal churches, which often operated in modest conditions — sometimes holding meetings in caves or on riverbanks. In contrast, larger, more established churches, often belonging to umbrella organizations, largely avoided closures. This is because they were better equipped to meet strict requirements — from installing security systems to painting walls and air conditioning.

In response, leaders of some denominations called on their congregations to contribute money to a fund aimed at helping to reopen closed places of worship. The movement shows solidarity among religious communities that are fighting for their right to practice their faith.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has also spoken publicly about the situation of churches in the country. He has condemned the “expanding churches” that he says are putting financial pressure on poor Rwandans, squeezing “every last penny” out of them. Kagame has also proposed introducing a tax on church collections to curb the illicit enrichment of some religious leaders.

The church closures have sparked strong reactions from both believers and religious leaders, who are calling for a more balanced approach from the government. Many have expressed hope for dialogue that will allow congregations to comply with legal requirements without being forced to close. The situation in Rwanda highlights the tensions between the authorities and religious communities that are trying to survive in the face of increasing restrictions. How this situation will develop in the future and what the long-term consequences will be for freedom of religion in Rwanda remain an open question.

Source: VOM Canada/Voice of Persecuted Christians -Facebook