Rwanda FDA Inspector Arrested Over Alleged Corruption and Bribery Scheme

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has arrested an inspector from the Rwanda Food and Drug Authority (Rwanda FDA) along with a brewery owner on suspicion of corruption, according to a statement released on November 17, 2025.

The Rwanda FDA employee is accused of soliciting and receiving bribes from the owner of DUSANGIRE PRODUCTION Ltd, a brewery based in Bugesera District. According to RIB, the bribes were allegedly paid in exchange for exemption from routine inspections conducted by the regulatory authority. The inspector is also under investigation for breach of professional secrecy.

The brewery owner, a woman whose name has not been released, was also arrested in connection with the case.

RIB confirmed that both suspects are being held at its stations in Nyarugenge and Nyamata, and their case files have been submitted to the National Public Prosecution Authority for further action.

“RIB warns those who produce substandard products that they should stop doing so because it is against the law,” the statement emphasized. The agency also cautioned public officials against abusing their authority for personal gain, stressing that such acts are criminal and will not be tolerated.

The arrests come amid a broader crackdown on substandard production in recent days. Four factories have recently been shut down, including Joyland Company Ltd - producer of the Salama juice - and NI&P Ltd in Nyarugenge, both cited for manufacturing products that failed to meet required standards.