Rwanda Shuts Down 5,600 Churches Over Safety Violations.

By Caroline Ameh

The Rwandan government has closed thousands of churches, including 100 cave churches, due to safety, health, and regulatory issues, such as inadequate soundproofing and the transactional nature of some worship practices.

According to Usta Kaitesi, Chief Executive of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), many affected faith-based organizations lacked basic infrastructure, proper hygiene, and safety standards, with some operating illegally.

Concerns have also been raised about the dangers posed by these environments, which may endanger worshippers’ lives instead of fostering faith and devotion. Practices such as retreating to isolated areas, neglecting healthcare, and extreme fasting often border on cultism, where people are misled by distorted religious teachings, putting their lives at risk.

In a nationwide crackdown by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) and other government agencies two weeks ago, over 100 “church caves” were shut down for failing to meet legal requirements governing faith-based organisations (FBOs).

This operation has sparked a discussion about the sanctity of worship spaces and the well-being of those who gather to pray. These so-called “church caves” are often temporary places of worship–caves, basements, or other unsafe environments–where people seek spiritual connection but risk their safety and dignity in the process.

The growing concern is how these environments, meant for faith and devotion could instead endanger the very people they aim to serve.

This phenomenon of people isolating themselves in dangerous locations to worship, or failing to participate in government activities like voting or community work, reflects a deeper issue.

Many believe that by retreating to secluded places, avoiding healthcare, or engaging in extreme religious practices like fasting for days on end, they are demonstrating their faith.