On August 5, 2026, the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) temporarily suspended 52 imported alcoholic beverages that it said did not meet required quality standards. The products included Kenya King, Gilbey’s Gin, Avalon Premium Vodka, Safari Gin and Sweet Berry Vodka, which are manufactured in Kenya.

Following the suspension, KEBS said it had conducted inspections and laboratory tests on the five Kenyan alcoholic beverages and found that they complied with applicable Kenyan and EAC quality standards.

KEBS also said it was engaging Rwanda FDA and other regulatory authorities in the region to establish the basis for the suspension and find a resolution through mechanisms provided under the EAC framework.

Speaking during a social media engagement hosted on TikTok on August 12, Dr. Nsanzimana responded to the position taken by KEBS.

He said the fact that some of the beverages were reportedly marked for markets outside Kenya raised questions.

“We have seen what our neighbours said, but no one speaks ill of them,” Dr. Nsanzimana said.

“If some of those products were tested and there are labels showing that they are not allowed in their own country but are instead meant for other countries, that is an indication that they may also be seeking profits elsewhere and protecting themselves,” he said.

Dr. Nsanzimana said consumers also have a responsibility to understand the products they use and protect their families.

“Everyone should know what they are doing and how they protect their families,” he said.

The Minister said he did not expect the suspension of the alcoholic beverages to damage Rwanda’s relations with Kenya.

He said the relevant authorities, including those responsible for foreign relations, would work together to address the matter.

The development comes amid a broader crackdown by Rwanda on alcoholic beverages considered to pose quality or safety concerns.

Following the Rwanda FDA’s action against substandard locally produced alcoholic beverages, including the closure of 148 factories, the crackdown also extended to imported alcoholic beverages.