On 1 March, Rwanda ordered 700 churches in Kigali Province to suspend activities because of concerns over health and safety.
Under a newly proposed law the churches are expected to meet ‘basic requirements in terms of safety, hygiene, infrastructure and legality’, Justus Kangwagye, a Government official, said.
The churches, and one mosque, have been asked to suspend their activities until adjustments have been made. ‘Worshipping should be done in an organised way and meet minimum standards. Exercising your freedom of worship should not encroach on other people’s rights,’ he said.