The Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, has said that 178 out of 329 mosques closed due to regulatory non-compliance have now met the required standards and are waiting for permission to reopen. ALSO READ: A look at 8 key requirements for faith-based organisations in Rwanda Sindayigaya announced this, on March 14, during the Rwanda Muslim Community’s annual meeting in Kigali. The session held in the holy month of Ramadan serves as a platform for the community to discuss issues affecting them, strategize for future development, and strengthen their role in national progress. ALSO READ: Closure of non-compliant faith-based organisations: What are the essential requirements? A key issue discussed was the closure of mosques following an inspection by Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), in July 2024, during which it was realised that many faith-based organizations including mosques, were not meeting required standards. As a result, nearly 10,000 places of worship were shut down. “We have worked to fulfill the requirements, and we are waiting for authorities to verify and reopen these mosques. We hope that the closures would be lifted during Ramadan,” Sindayigaya said. He commended the efforts of Muslims working together to ensure mosques meet the required standards. For those still in the process of working to ensure they fulfil set guidelines, he urged continued collaboration to fulfill all necessary requirements. The inspection, which reviewed nearly 14,000 faith-based organizations, resulted in up to 20 organizations losing their legal status after an assessment conducted between February 24-28. Sindayigaya called upon Muslims to focus on good moral conduct, supporting the needy, and praying for the nation’s peace, security, and leadership during this holy month.
