Rwanda has received widespread acclaim across Africa for its decision to tax church offerings and tithes, aiming to curb exploitation by self-proclaimed pastors and prophets.
This initiative comes on the heels of the Rwandan government's closure of nearly 8,000 churches that failed to meet regulatory standards.
The Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) revealed that 59.3% of over 13,000 inspected churches were operating illegally and did not comply with infrastructural requirements.
As part of this sweeping reform, nationwide inspections will be conducted to ensure that pastors and prophets possess the necessary academic qualifications and that churches are properly registered. Non-compliant churches will face closure.
President Paul Kagame emphasized the need for these measures during his first public address after his swearing-in ceremony. "These unscrupulous people who use religion and churches to manipulate and fleece people of their money and other things, will force us to introduce a tax, so churches pay tax on the money they get from people," Kagame stated. He further added, "If truth is to be told, these mushrooming churches are just there to squeeze even the last penny from poor Rwandans, as those who own them enrich themselves."
The RGB's statement highlighted the importance of compliance with laws and regulations governing faith-based organizations. The inspections will verify that denominations and prayer houses have proper registration documents, meet legal building codes and that their leaders hold required academic degrees in Theology.
This initiative has been met with applause from many Africans who have observed how some religious leaders have amassed excessive wealth at the expense of vulnerable believers. One social media user commented, "It's about time someone took action against these hustler prophets."
The move also mirrors concerns in Kenya, where a task force has proposed stringent penalties, including a Sh5million fine or a 10-year jail term for deceitful preachers. The proposed Religious Organisations Bill, 2024, aims to regulate rogue preachers through the establishment of a Religious Affairs Commission and rigorous registration and vetting processes for religious entities.
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