Afro-soul artist Bill Ruzima, who was recently arrested over substance use, has been transferred to the Huye Rehabilitation Centre for treatment, The New Times has learned.

Reports indicate that Ruzima was moved to the facility on the morning of November 19 to begin receiving medical care. He had been held at the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) Kimihurura Station following his arrest on November 15, on charges related to the use and transportation of cannabis.

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According to officials, Ruzima admitted to the bureau that he had been using the drug since 2022.

Efforts by The New Times to obtain an official comment from RIB regarding the status of his case were unsuccessful by press time.

Ruzima, 27, is a Rwandan singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for his Afro-soul sound. He launched his solo career in 2019 after graduating from music school in 2018. Before going solo, he performed as part of the trio Yemba Voice, alongside well-known artists Kenny K Sol and Mozzy.

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In a previous interview with The New Times for an article titled "Drug abuse: When does a person go to rehab or jail?” RIB spokesperson Thierry Murangira explained the criteria used to determine whether an offender is sent for rehabilitation or prosecuted.

"When it is a first-time offense involving drug use, an individual can be given a chance to reform, especially if there are mitigating factors,” he said.

However, he noted that people arrested for other crimes, with drug use discovered in the process, are prosecuted for all offences committed.

Commenting on the effectiveness of rehabilitation centres, Murangira highlighted their positive impact, noting that many people who undergo treatment successfully reintegrate into society, return to school, or resume their careers.