English
Kinyarwanda
The Rwanda National Police (RNP) has launched the 'SI ZO ZAWE, ZANGE' campaign to combat and eliminate illicit alcoholic drinks and other beverages produced in unsafe and non-standard ways that pose serious risks to public health.
The campaign, translated as “They’re Not Genuine. Reject Them,” complements the existing “TUNYWE LESS” initiative while placing greater emphasis on beverages adulterated with harmful chemicals and other dangerous substances that can cause illness, blindness, and even death.
The campaign follows continued reports of health complications linked to the consumption of adulterated beverages in different parts of the country.
Ministry of Health says 44 people died between January and June 2026 after consuming drinks adulterated with toxic substances, with victims suffering severe complications including blindness, organ damage and death due to toxic substances used in their production.
Cases of illness, blindness, and loss of life have been reported in districts including Bugesera, Rwamagana, and Nyabihu, among others. Consumption of the dangerous beverages has also been linked to violence and other criminal acts.
Police Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, Commissioner for Public Relations and Media, said the campaign is intended to prevent any further loss of life or health complications resulting from the consumption of unsafe beverages.
"Our objective is to ensure that no one dies, falls ill, or suffers any other harmful effects after consuming beverages produced using prohibited materials, adulterated with harmful chemicals, or prepared under unhygienic conditions," ACP Rutikanga said.
He noted that the campaign will focus on encouraging those involved in the production and distribution of such beverages to stop the practice permanently, while also urging the public to carefully check the beverages they consume, whether purchased from shops and bars or traditionally prepared in households.
ACP Rutikanga warned that alcoholic drinks adulterated with substances such as industrial chemicals, soap, brick powder, baking additives, improperly used yeast, drain-cleaning chemicals, and other hazardous substances are deadly.
He further urged the public to ensure that traditionally prepared beverages, including fruit juice (umutobe), sorghum drink (ubushera), and banana beer (ikigage), whether consumed at home, served to guests, or prepared for celebrations, are made in accordance with the guidelines issued by the relevant authorities.
"All beverages should be prepared using genuine ingredients only, without adding unauthorized substances. They should also be produced, handled, and served under proper hygienic conditions," he said.
The RNP spokesperson also reminded the public that producing and selling beverages that endanger people's health is an offence punishable by law.
"It is everyone's responsibility to eliminate these dangerous beverages. Protect others by encouraging them to stay away from unsafe and adulterated drinks," ACP Rutikanga said.
