The Rwandan government, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, made a bold move by shutting down over 5,600 churches and mosques.
The major crackdown included 100 cave churches.
Rwanda govt speaks on why the churches, mosques were shutdown
The closures were primarily due to non-compliance with safety and health regulations, such as inadequate soundproofing and the commercialized nature of many worship centres.
As reported by ChurchLeaders, this action was part of a two-week nationwide operation led by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), which commenced on July 29.
Usta Kaitesi, the Chief Executive of RGB, stated that the majority of the affected faith-based organizations were closed due to a lack of basic infrastructure, inadequate hygiene and safety standards, and, in some cases, illegal operations.
He said:
“This is a nationwide operation targeting churches that continue to violate the law. As the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), we are committed to ensuring that places of worship adhere to proper standards.
“The goal is for people to realize that these practices are not safe or healthy for worship.”
What does the Rwanda law say?
The law introduced in Rwanda in 2018 mandates that places of worship must function in a safe and orderly environment.
It prohibits the use of loud public address systems and requires all preachers to undergo theological training before establishing a church, Premium Times reported.
Rwanda government points to more issues
The Chief Executive of RGB speaking further, revealed that:
“This issue goes beyond legal non-compliance; it endangers the lives of worshippers. Worshippers should not be exposed to hazardous conditions.
“According to the beliefs of most Christians, God is omnipresent, so why should anyone risk their life inside a cave?” Kaitesi stated on the public broadcaster RBA.”
