A weekend inspection by Rwanda National Police in partnership with the City of Kigali has revealed that 206 establishments, including bars, clubs, and liquor shops, are operating in violation of regulations governing hospitality and entertainment services.
The crackdown, conducted on Saturday and Sunday, July 19–20, covered 601 establishments across all three districts of Kigali. The effort is part of a wider government campaign to curb excessive alcohol consumption and enforce public order in nightlife operations.
Police Spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said the inspections are part of sustained efforts to ensure compliance with sector-specific rules. “To prevent the rising issue of excessive alcohol consumption, especially among youth, the government has implemented continuous inspections by the police and other institutions,” he said.
ACP Rutikanga emphasized that repeated violations by some bars and hotels—despite prior warnings—led to the recent sanctions. Offending venues faced administrative penalties, including temporary closure and fines.
Among those found non-compliant were 53 nightclubs, 64 liquor shops, 5 supermarkets, 17 standard retail outlets selling alcohol, 64 bars, 2 lodges, and multiple restaurants. In some areas, authorities issued immediate closure orders, while others were fined.
One individual in Remera Sector, Gasabo District, was caught operating both a bar and a lodging facility that had previously been shut down for violating regulations. In Nyarugenge District, 24 individuals were found heavily intoxicated in public and were briefly detained and counselled before being released.
The inspections are based on directives issued in a June 28, 2025, statement by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) following a joint meeting with Rwanda National Police, City of Kigali, and other stakeholders. The rules stipulate that alcohol service must end at 1:00 a.m. from Monday to Friday and by 2:00 a.m. on weekends. Establishments are also required to clear out customers and lock premises at those times.
Other key provisions include banning alcohol sales to anyone under 18, refusing service to visibly intoxicated individuals, controlling noise levels to avoid disturbing nearby residents, and maintaining strict monitoring of customer age and behaviour.
ACP Rutikanga urged business owners to proactively self-monitor and comply with hospitality sector regulations to avoid penalties and losses. He also confirmed that inspections will continue and be expanded nationwide
