Godsent Ogbebor
Rwanda Closes Over 10,000 Churches Under New Regulations
The Rwandan government’s closure of thousands of churches has intensified debate over religious freedom, with critics warning that the crackdown reflects growing state control over faith-based organisations.
Grace Room Ministries, an evangelical church that once drew huge crowds to major venues in Kigali, was among those shut down in May. Authorities say the closures are part of the enforcement of a 2018 law regulating places of worship, which sets standards for health and safety, financial accountability and theological training for pastors.
Officials say more than 10,000 churches have failed to meet the requirements. President Paul Kagame has defended the policy, questioning the social and economic value of many evangelical churches and accusing some of exploiting worshippers.
Rwanda is overwhelmingly Christian, according to the 2024 census, and the closures have left many believers travelling long distances to attend services. Some church leaders say even congregations that attempted to comply with regulations have remained closed.
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Legal and political analysts argue that the clampdown goes beyond regulation. They say the government is uncomfortable with organisations capable of commanding large followings outside state control, particularly in a country where political authority is tightly centralised.
The authorities, however, insist the measures are necessary for public order and national security. Some officials link the policy to Rwanda’s post-genocide history, warning that religious institutions can be misused by extremist groups and should not operate without oversight.
Religious leaders affected by the closures have called for dialogue rather than blanket shutdowns, urging the government to support compliance instead of dismantling churches entirely. They say faith institutions continue to play a crucial role in social support, healing and community life.
As enforcement continues, the closures have become a flashpoint in Rwanda’s wider debate over governance, security and freedom of worship.
