RGB Announces When Closed Churches and Mosques Will Reopen
On Wednesday, 19 November 2025, Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard presented a report to both chambers of Parliament about the activities RGB completed in 2024–2025 and the plans for 2025–2026.
RGB Inspection in Faith-Based Organisations
Dr. Uwicyeza explained that during the previous year, RGB carried out an inspection in many faith-based organisations to check if they were following national laws.
Findings From the Inspection
According to the report, RGB discovered several issues in some churches and religious groups, including:
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Teachings designed to mislead or exploit people
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Money-related fraud
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Lack of transparency
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Leadership conflicts
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Operating in unsafe or illegal buildings
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Poor management of resources
Because of these issues, 21 organisations lost their legal status, and 9,171 church and mosque buildings were closed for failing to meet required standards.
Questions From Members of Parliament
Hon. Ntezimana Jean Claude asked RGB whether any of the over 9,000 closed places of worship had been allowed to reopen after meeting the requirements.
He said,
“I don’t believe all of them ignored the rules. I think some have already corrected the problems and should be able to reopen.”
RGB Gives a Clear Update
Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard confirmed that RGB worked closely with leaders of these faith organisations to help them understand and complete the needed requirements.
She stated,
“We are preparing to give a full answer very soon.”
Groups Already Reopened
Dr. Uwicyeza added that a small number of churches and mosques have already reopened after fulfilling all legal conditions.
RGB also received 84 applications from groups requesting to reopen:
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15 groups were asked to return and correct some issues
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68 groups are still under review
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Some have already met the requirements and reopened
This shows that the reopening process is active, and more places of worship will reopen once they complete all necessary steps.
