Rwanda Shuts Thousands of Churches: Grace Room Ministries Closure Sparks Outcry Over Faith, Control, and Government Crackdown

Rwanda’s government has closed thousands of churches. Among them is the popular Grace Room Ministries. The church once filled giant stadiums three times a week. Its closure in May left many congregants shocked. Many now search for new places to worship. Authorities said the church failed to submit annual activity and financial reports. The closure is part of a wider crackdown on evangelical organizations.

The shutdowns follow a 2018 law regulating places of worship. Churches must meet health and safety standards. They must also submit financial reports and ensure all preachers have theological training. Officials say the rules promote accountability. Critics argue the government uses them to control independent influence. “There’s no rival in terms of influence,” said Louis Gitinywa, a Kigali lawyer. “The ruling party bristles when an organization or individual gains power.”

President Paul Kagame has criticized the rapid growth of evangelical churches. He questions their role in national development. “If it were up to me, I wouldn’t even reopen a single church,” he said. He added that some churches are “just a den of bandits” and fail to provide jobs or services. Observers say the clampdown is as much about control as compliance.

Pastor Sam Rugira had two churches closed for failing fire safety standards. He said new evangelical churches are most affected. Pastor Julienne Kabanda, who drew large crowds at Kigali’s BK Arena, also lost her license. Some church leaders say even compliant churches are being closed. Many fear for the future of faith communities.

Experts link the crackdown partly to Rwanda’s history, including the 1994 genocide. Religion has helped healing, but authorities worry some churches could be exploited by exiled militias. Pastor Rugira says the government should work with churches to remove “bad apples” and help them comply. Blanket closures disrupt communities that rely on faith for guidance.

The situation highlights tension between state authority, religious freedom and social influence. It raises questions about the role of faith in Rwanda’s development and governance.