This archive report was first published on 6 January 2022.
On Christmas Day, a tragic incident occurred in Rwanda's south eastern district of Bugesera, where eleven people lost their lives after consuming a local brew made from bananas.
According to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the victims had been drinking the brew, which is believed to contain high levels of methanol, a toxic substance found in the stomachs of the deceased.
Four other individuals are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
Following the incident, the RIB has confirmed that five people, including the brewery's owner, have been arrested.
The brewery was operating without a valid licence, and its operations have been suspended by the RIB.
As a result, a nationwide campaign has been launched to crack down on unauthorized local brews.
