President Kagame backs revival of Adhan over loudspeakers

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has directed local authorities to resolve the issue of early morning Islamic call to prayer, known as Adhan, saying the move is straightforward and aligns with religious practice.

Kagame spoke on Wednesday during a Ramadhan dialogue with Muslim community members at BK Arena in Kigali. Participants had raised concerns over the suspension of the early morning call, which had left many Muslims unable to perform the traditional prayer call over the public address system.

Speaking during a meeting with the Muslim community at BK Arena on Wednesday, March 25, Kagame was asked about the issue during a Q&A session, with one participant expressing concern over its suspension.

"Your Excellency, there is something that hurts us a lot. Maybe we didn’t understand, you can help us understand. It hurts us that the morning call to prayer was removed,” the participant said.

“What is the problem? It’s easy to address,” Kagame replied. “Those responsible at the local level should review it. Are you afraid of waking people up in the morning? That is precisely the time to rise.”

In March 2022, police in Kigali banned the call for prayers over loudspeakers in some mosques, citing noise concerns under Law No. 68/2018, Article 267, which prohibits disturbances to the public. Authorities clarified that the prayer itself was not banned, only the amplified call.

Kagame assured Muslims that the Adhan would resume at its usual early-hour time using loudspeakers. “It will be reinstated and conducted as before,” he said.

The president also condemned individuals who exploit religion for personal gain. “Religion should serve to educate and assist people, not as a tool to deprive others,” he said.

He encouraged Muslims to continue their development efforts and reaffirmed that the government will support initiatives benefiting the community.

The Adhan is a central pillar of Islamic practice, signaling the five daily prayers and reminding followers to perform them on time. Its early morning rendition is particularly significant for the Fajr prayer, marking the start of the day’s worship.