Rwanda Reports 44 Deaths From Illicit Alcohol in First Half of 2026

Health officials in Rwanda reported at least 44 deaths from January through June after people consumed illicit or substandard alcoholic drinks. The ministry described the situation as an epidemic and said many victims had been healthy before drinking the brews.

Victims developed complications including blindness and organ failure. Officials stated that some producers added crushed bricks, solvents, and methanol to the drinks.

A national health survey released in June found that 50 percent of men and 18 percent of women aged 15-49 had consumed alcohol in the previous month. Consumption rates rose with age, reaching 64.8 percent among men aged 40-44. Officials said the data show three problems: excessive drinking, consumption of substandard products, and widespread availability of alcohol.

Some illicit products carry local names such as Icyuma, Yewe Muntu, and Dunda Ubwonko. Officials said these drinks can cause kidney failure, mental disorders, and permanent vision loss. The ministry has promoted a "Tunywe-less" campaign urging reduced intake.

Officials said no single agency can address the issue alone and called on local authorities, health workers, security agencies, and residents to identify and stop unsafe production. Higher numbers of cases have been recorded in Bugesera, Rwamagana, and Kayonza districts, though the problem exists nationwide.

Officials warned against any alcohol or food prepared in unhygienic conditions.