The Rwanda Standards Bureau (RSB) has warned against the consumption of ‘kargasok’ tea, a local herbal beverage said to have medicinal properties, saying it does not meet the required standards.

"This tea is not safe for human consumption as it can lead to kidney failure, diabetes mellitus, duodenum and pancreatic diseases,” Patrick Ntiyamira, the RBS deputy director general, said. He noted that several health problems resulting from consumption of the tea have already been registered countrywide.

Ntiyamira was speaking during a workshop attended by the producers of the tea at the Rwanda Bureau of Standards offices in Kicukiro district.

He advised the producers to form one company, under which they can be able to produce the tea according to the required standards. 

He said this was the only way they would be allowed to continue making the beverage, noting that was a win-win situation for both the state and the entrepreneurs.

"We could have closed down your businesses, but we will instead help to make quality and ensure safety of the consumers,” he said.

The herbal tea producers pledged to form and work under an umbrella body to enhance quality.