Kagame: Public health paramount over profits in alcohol crackdown

President Paul Kagame has firmly stood by Rwanda’s decision to halt the sale of 52 imported alcoholic drinks, emphasizing that the well-being of citizens takes precedence over commercial interests. The Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) took action after linking these beverages to consumer deaths, prompting a vigorous defense from President Kagame.

During a press conference in Kigali, the Rwandan leader stated that the country will not compromise its safety standards for financial gain. He directly addressed concerns about job losses, posing the question of whether such losses are more significant than the loss of human lives. This stance comes amidst protests from Kenya and Uganda, whose regulatory bodies had initially approved the affected drinks.

Kagame’s remarks also touched upon the possibility of substandard products entering the market due to negligence or complicity from officials. He indicated that those responsible for allowing such products into Rwanda would face consequences, regardless of approvals in other East African Community (EAC) member states. The President made it clear that Rwanda’s primary responsibility is to its own citizens’ health.

The crackdown has raised questions about potential new trade barriers within the EAC or differing regulatory standards among member nations. Kenya and Uganda have argued that their own product approvals and EAC protocols, which promote the free movement of goods and harmonized standards, should be respected by Rwanda. However, Kagame remains resolute, prioritizing public health and safety above all else.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kagame-defends-purge-on-substandard-alcohol-5574322