After several warnings about poor hygiene, Rwanda Animal Resources Development Authority (Rarda) has closed a total of 12 butcher shops around Kigali City.

Théogène Rutagwenda, Rarda director general, said butcher shops neglected minimum standards, adding that warnings and inspections have taken place to underline what is necessary to meet the required standards.

"Those who had some requirements but were in poor conditions were given notice to comply while others were closed,” he said.

Rarda is a government agency responsible for the quality of animal products in the country.

"It is a shame that by the time of the operation, some butcher shops did not have toilets, running water, refrigerator and tiles for easy cleaning as some of the crucial standards for proper hygiene,” Rutagwenda lamented.

He explained that proper hygiene is a must in places where foodstuffs are stored and kept in order to promote a healthy society and nation.

Rutagwenda also said that the inspection process is still on going and will cover all of Kigali City.

Earlier this week, Rarda also closed 10 milk cooling centres in the city because of poor hygienic conditions and failing to meet the required standards.

Many lacked tiles both on the wall and the floor, running water and toilet facilities. Those most affected were around Remera, Giporoso and Kabeza.

Rarda had issued them circulars detailing the minimum hygiene standards for their business premises as early as 2006.

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