The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has ordered the temporary closure of Hotel Chateau Le Marara in Karongi District, at the shore of Lake Kivu, citing failure to comply with national tourism regulations. The decision, announced in a public notice issued on July 21, follows an investigation that found the hotel operating without a valid Tourism Operating License (TOL), which is a legal requirement under Rwanda’s tourism law. “Pursuant to Law No. 12ter/2014 of 19/05/2014 regulating the tourism industry in Rwanda, particularly Articles 5, 20, and 29, which establish the mandatory requirement fo

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has ordered the temporary closure of Hotel Chateau Le Marara in Karongi District, at the shore of Lake Kivu, citing failure to comply with national tourism regulations. The decision, announced in a public notice issued on July 21, follows an investigation that found the hotel operating without a valid Tourism Operating License (TOL), which is a legal requirement under Rwanda’s tourism law. “Pursuant to Law No. 12ter/2014 of 19/05/2014 regulating the tourism industry in Rwanda, particularly Articles 5, 20, and 29, which establish the mandatory requirement for a valid Tourism Operating License (TOL) and grant the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) the authority to suspend or close non-compliant establishments, RDB hereby orders the immediate closure of Hotel Chateau Le Marara. Following investigation, the facility has been found operating without a Tourism Operating License, in clear violation of national tourism regulation,” RDB stated in the notice. According to RDB, the hotel must cease operations effective July 22, 2025. “Reopening will only be considered upon successful completion of the Tourism Operating License application process and full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements,” the notice states. Warning other establishments, RDB added: “All tourism and hospitality operators are reminded that holding a valid Tourism Operating License is a legal obligation. The license serves as a guarantee of minimum safety, service, and operational standards necessary to protect both visitors and the industry at large.” The closure of Hotel Chateau Le Marara comes amid growing controversy following the high-profile wedding of Hajj Shadadi Musemakweri and Uwera Bonnette on July 14, which triggered multiple guest complaints about poor service, unhygienic food, and frequent power outages. Guests reported being served spoiled milk and fruit, experiencing constant power disruptions, and receiving inadequate attention from staff. Some claimed they were forced to rent an emergency generator to continue with wedding preparations. Others accused the hotel of overcharging, including for guests attending events not covered in the original agreement. Chateau Le Marara has denied the accusations, describing them as “99% lies” aimed at tarnishing its reputation. The hotel has since filed a complaint with the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), accusing the couple behind the wedding of defamation and failure to pay over Frw 5 million in outstanding bills.

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