76,000 Liters of Substandard Alcohol Destroyed in Bugesera

Authorities in Bugesera District have destroyed 76,000 liters of substandard alcoholic drinks, including the popular brand Indege, as well as Isano and Agasembuye, after they were found to be produced under unsafe and illegal conditions.

The destruction exercise took place on 15 November 2025 following an extensive inspection conducted in the sectors of Nyarugenge and Nyamata, where the drinks were seized.

Two Unlicensed Factories Shut Down

The inspection revealed that two factories Dusangire Production and EKAM Ltd were producing alcoholic beverages in violation of national safety standards.

Dusangire Production, located in Nyarugenge Sector, Ngenda Cell, Kamabare Village, had over 62,000 liters of Isano and Agasembuye ready for distribution.
Inspectors discovered that although the factory had been granted a license to produce banana-based liquor, it did not have the amount of bananas required to justify the quantities it was producing.

EKAM Ltd, based in Nyamata Sector, Kayumba Cell, Kayenzi Village, had over 14,000 liters of the well-known drink Indege.
Residents reported that they had never seen trucks delivering banana raw materials to the factory, only vehicles transporting alcohol out further confirming the suspicions.

Following the findings, authorities agreed to immediately dispose of all the confiscated drinks and to shut down both factories. They also announced that any other illegal alcoholic products already being sold in the region would be seized and destroyed to protect public health.

Local Leaders Warn Against Illegal Production

Bugesera District Mayor Mutabazi Richard told residents the operation was crucial for their safety and for combating crimes linked to consumption of unsafe alcohol. “This is an exercise we must continue to strengthen. Fighting substandard alcohol is about protecting our citizens’ health and preserving their safety,” he said.

He commended security organs and regulatory institutions, including Rwanda FDA, for their coordinated efforts in exposing the illegal breweries. Mutabazi urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities, especially concerning drinks with unknown ingredients or misleading brand names.

He also reminded beverage traders to comply with national regulations, avoid selling or hiding unlicensed products, and prioritize consumer safety.

Security Agencies Commit to Ongoing Crackdown

Security agencies in the district reiterated their commitment to ongoing inspections and operations targeting illegal alcohol production. They emphasized that unsafe drinks pose serious risks to communities, including health complications and an increase in related crimes.

Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and avoid consuming any alcoholic beverages whose origin and ingredients are unclear.