The statement banning the products was signed on 30th November 2022 by the Director General of Rwanda FDA, Dr. Emile Bienvenue after an assessment that detected poor standards in companies that produce and distribute the herbal medicines.

The banned drugs include ‘Dawa ya Kupanua Uume’ used to enlarge the pennis and ‘Ngetwa 3’ used to treat various diseases. They are all manufactured in Tanzania.

Rwanda FDA has also banned ‘Delay Spray for Men’, a drug containing Vitamin E that is also used for penis enlargement.

“Apart from being substandard, these drugs can have adverse effects to users. It is under this context that all related advertising activities are prohibited,” reads the statement in part.

Rwanda FDA requested retailers of the drugs to stop buying and return them to suppliers.

Wholesalers have been also urged to register all quantities of returned drugs and provide a report to Rwanda FDA.

All producers, suppliers and retailers of herbal medicines are encouraged to apply for licensing at Rwanda FDA and register their products portfolio before starting operations.