Faith
Rwanda Faces Criticism Over Church Closures
Faith Facts
- Over 10,000 churches have been closed in Rwanda under a strict 2018 law.
- Preachers must complete theological training and churches must meet financial, health, and safety requirements.
- Concerns have been raised that new Evangelical churches are disproportionately targeted.
President Paul Kagame has defended the government’s closure of thousands of churches, describing some as unhelpful to Rwanda’s stability and survival.
Many churches remain shut, even after meeting government standards, leaving Christian communities grieving the loss of their gathering places of worship and service.
“In all the development challenges we are dealing with, the wars, our country’s survival… what is the role of these churches… Are they also providing jobs? Many are just thieving,” President Kagame stated.
Pastors like Sam Rugira argue that the government’s policies misunderstand the role of churches and neglect the support churches offer to families and the needy.
Some Muslim leaders have also spoken out, noting that restrictions affect all faith groups and threaten religious freedoms protected under Rwanda’s constitution.
Standing for faith and freedom requires vigilance and prayer for those whose right to worship is endangered. Let us pray for the faithful in Rwanda and support all who champion religious liberty.