A recent study conducted by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) reveals a growing trend in alcohol consumption among Rwandans, with the rate increasing from 41.3% a decade ago to 48%. The findings indicate a shift in drinking habits, particularly among women and residents of small towns and rural areas.
According to the report, 34.3% of those who consume alcohol are women—a number that continues to rise, signaling a departure from the long-standing perception that alcohol consumption is predominantly a male behavior.
The Northern Province leads the country with the highest percentage of people who drink alcohol at 56.6%. Meanwhile, the Western Province shows the highest level of excessive drinking, with 19.1% of its population consuming alcohol in harmful amounts—more than any other region.
The study also found that excessive alcohol consumption is more prevalent in small towns (44.7%) and rural areas (43.1%) compared to major urban centers (29%). This pattern is largely attributed to the affordability and easy accessibility of alcoholic beverages in these areas.
The Ministry of Health has issued warnings about the health risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders, mental health challenges, and risky behaviors that endanger lives. In response, the government launched the “Tunywe Less” campaign to raise awareness particularly among the youth about the dangers of heavy drinking and to encourage more responsible alcohol use.
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