Rwanda’s ongoing debate over the closure of thousands of churches has taken a sharper turn following strong remarks by President Paul Kagame, who openly questioned the relevance of many religious institutions to the country’s socio-economic development. His comments come amid continued enforcement of compliance measures by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), reigniting national discussion on faith, accountability, and the role of worship in a modern state.
Between July and August 2024, RGB conducted a nationwide inspection of religious institutions to assess compliance with legal, structural, and safety standards. The results were striking. Out of more than 13,770 churches assessed across the country, approximately 9,171 were ordered to close after failing to meet minimum requirements. Authorities explained that the exercise was driven primarily by concerns over public safety, governance, and the protection of worshippers.
Following the closures, affected religious organizations were issued detailed guidelines outlining what needed to be corrected before any reopening could be considered. These requirements covered issues such as building safety, sanitation, proper registration, leadership accountability, and financial transparency. In response, many church leaders claimed to have invested resources into renovations and administrative reforms, urging the government to re-inspect their facilities.
The issue returned to the spotlight during a press briefing on 27 November 2025, when President Kagame addressed journalists and spoke candidly about his views on churches and their place in Rwanda’s development agenda. His remarks were firm and unapologetic.
“If it were up to me, I wouldn’t open any churches,” the President said. “What role do they play in development, in global conflicts, or the wellbeing of the country?”
His statement immediately drew attention, reflecting a broader government stance that prioritizes measurable contributions to national progress. Kagame argued that, in his view, many churches have failed to demonstrate tangible value to the economy or society, beyond spiritual gatherings.
The President went further, expressing concern over misconduct linked to certain religious institutions. He pointed to cases involving fraud, exploitation of believers, and misuse of religious platforms for personal gain. According to him, such practices have overshadowed any positive contributions churches might claim.
“Do they even provide employment?” he asked. “Many of them engage in theft. I see no reason to sympathize with individuals who misuse religious platforms.”
Kagame’s remarks echoed long-standing concerns raised by regulators and lawmakers, who have repeatedly warned about unregulated religious groups operating in unsafe buildings, collecting money without accountability, and misleading followers. The closures, the government insists, are not an attack on faith but a response to these systemic problems.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, the President reminded the public that churches were closed for extended periods during lockdowns, yet worship did not stop. Believers adapted by praying from their homes, while established denominations relied on radio, television, and online platforms to maintain contact with their congregations. Digital solutions, including mobile payment systems, allowed churches to continue receiving tithes and offerings without physical gatherings.
This experience, Kagame argued, proved that worship does not depend on physical buildings.
“If you want to pray, do it on your phone,” he said. “Where do you think digital ministry came from? We are not trying to harm anyone; we are just being realistic.”
His comments reinforced the idea that faith is a personal practice that can exist independently of crowded or unsafe structures. The President suggested that modern technology offers alternatives that are safer, more efficient, and better aligned with contemporary lifestyles.
Concerns were raised during the briefing about districts where a small number of churches remain open, attracting worshippers from multiple neighborhoods and creating overcrowded conditions. Kagame responded decisively, stating that such situations could also prompt further closures if they pose risks.
“If necessary, we will close them as well,” he said. “People can worship at home.”
Meanwhile, RGB has provided lawmakers with updates on the status of reopening requests. According to the agency, only a limited number of churches have so far met all requirements and been authorized to resume operations. In addition, RGB has received 84 new applications from religious organizations claiming full compliance. Of these, 15 were instructed to address outstanding issues, while 68 applications remain under review.
The slow pace of reopenings underscores the government’s strict approach. Officials insist that compliance will not be rushed and that safety and governance standards will not be compromised under public or religious pressure.
President Kagame made it clear that the ultimate authority on the matter lies with him. He stated openly that he does not intend to reverse the closures simply to appease religious groups or public sentiment.
This firm stance has generated mixed reactions across the country. Supporters argue that the government is right to demand accountability and protect citizens from exploitation and unsafe environments. They see the crackdown as part of Rwanda’s broader culture of regulation, discipline, and results-oriented governance.
Critics, however, worry about the social and spiritual implications of closing so many places of worship, particularly in rural areas where churches often serve as community gathering points. Some faith leaders feel the President’s comments dismiss the moral and social roles that churches play, including charity work, counseling, and community cohesion.
Despite these differing views, the government maintains that freedom of worship remains protected, as long as it is practiced within the law. Officials emphasize that no one is being prevented from praying, preaching, or believing only from operating institutions that fail to meet national standards.
The debate reflects a deeper conversation about the place of religion in Rwanda’s development model. As the country continues to modernize and prioritize efficiency, safety, and accountability, institutions of all kinds are being measured against their contribution to national goals.
For now, Rwanda’s church closure policy remains firmly in place, with reopening dependent on strict compliance rather than political compromise. President Kagame’s remarks have clarified the government’s position: worship is a personal right, but religious institutions must operate responsibly, transparently, and in alignment with the country’s development vision.
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