Rwanda: 28 Dead, Over 200 Hospitalized After Drinking Toxic Alcohol

At least 28 people have died and 229 others have been hospitalized in Rwanda after consuming alcohol suspected to contain dangerous chemicals, health authorities have confirmed.

According to the Ministry of Health, the victims were recorded between February 2 and February 12, 2026. The affected individuals were admitted to health facilities in Bugesera District, Ruhango District, Nyamagabe District, and Rwamagana District.

Victims Report Severe Symptoms

Survivors reported severe symptoms shortly after consuming the alcohol, including blurred vision, stomach pain, heart complications, vomiting, and hearing problems.

One survivor from Ngeruka Sector in Bugesera said he woke up unable to see clearly and experiencing blocked ears after sharing drinks with a friend. His companion later died despite receiving medical attention.

Medical experts say many of the affected individuals experienced abdominal pain and heart complications, while some suffered permanent vision damage.

Methanol Identified as Major Cause

Dr. Tugireyezu Oreste, Head of the General Medicine Department at the Ministry of Health, said preliminary findings indicate that the alcohol contained methanol — a highly toxic substance not intended for beverage production.

Methanol poisoning can cause severe brain damage, kidney failure, heart complications, blindness, and death. Health officials explained that once methanol enters the body, it spreads rapidly to vital organs and can be fatal if treatment is delayed.

Authorities also warned that even excessive amounts of ethanol — the type of alcohol normally used in beverage production — can cause serious health effects if improperly handled.

Police Seize Over 116,000 Liters

The Rwanda National Police confirmed that more than 116,000 liters of illegal and substandard alcohol have been seized within four days.

Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said one factory was discovered operating illegally in Huye District. Although it possessed licensed equipment for legal production, investigators found it manufacturing unauthorized products secretly.

Authorities recovered approximately 40,000 liters from the facility alone.

Investigations are ongoing to determine whether local officials were aware of the illegal operations or if regulatory gaps allowed the production to continue unnoticed.

Public Urged to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Health officials have urged citizens to seek immediate medical assistance if they experience unusual symptoms after consuming alcohol.

They also cautioned the public against excessive drinking, even when consuming legally produced beverages, emphasizing that alcohol misuse carries serious health risks.

The deadly outbreak has triggered heightened inspections and enforcement efforts nationwide as Rwanda moves to prevent further loss of life.