On July 21, 2025, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) announced the closure of Château Le Marara Hotel, citing non-compliance with Law No. 12ter/2014 governing tourism operations in Rwanda. The decision specifically referenced Articles 5, 20, and 29 of this law.
These legal provisions clearly state that institutions cannot offer tourism services without a valid license issued by RDB.
RDB’s investigation revealed that Château Le Marara Hotel had been operating without a license. This serious violation resulted in its immediate categorization as an unauthorized business, forcing an official closure.
Effective Tuesday, July 22, 2025, the hotel ceased operations. RDB sternly warned, “Any continued activities beyond this date will constitute illegal operations and may attract severe penalties.”
RDB further clarified that the hotel could reopen only if it fulfills all regulatory requirements, including obtaining a valid license and meeting other legal compliance standards.
The hotel’s management has yet to comment on the closure, which was announced late Monday, July 21, 2025.
RDB justified its decision citing Articles 5, 20, and 29 of Law No. 12ter/2014 of May 19, 2014.
Article 5 explains the process for applying for an operational license. It mandates a formal written application alongside required documentation and fees, including a fixed payment of 80,000 RWF (around USD $80) per license issued.
Article 10 governs the temporary suspension of operations when businesses fail to meet critical safety, health, or environmental standards. Urgent situations may see resolutions within two to five days by the concerned authorities.
Article 19 permits institutions to appeal decisions made by RDB within 30 days of receiving formal notification.
Public reaction to Château Le Marara’s closure was intense. Some questioned how such a highly regarded establishment could operate for years without proper licensing. The incident has ignited debates surrounding governance and accountability within RDB.
On social media, widespread disappointment was expressed. One user, Matiku, commented: “This hotel has been operating for years; how could RDB fail to notice this? It’s shocking!” Cyril Ndegeya added, “How could a major hotel lack a license while operating openly? RDB must provide answers.”
The public also called for deeper investigations into potential oversight failures. Statements such as “RDB must explain its negligence in supervising tourism services,” flooded platforms including Twitter (X).
Château Le Marara’s closure came days after complaints surfaced about substandard services provided during a high-profile wedding event. Bride and groom Musemakweri and Bonnette accused the hotel of unfulfilled promises and inadequate service standards, including:
- Power outages on the wedding day accompanied by scarce staff availability.
- Insufficient food and seating arrangements that left some guests unattended.
- A lack of staff that compelled the couple to assist guests personally despite paying premium fees.
The couple demanded various corrective measures from the hotel:
- A one-night accommodation refund for all guests.
- Reimbursement of 40% of food expenses.
- Compensation for emotional distress, along with a formal apology.
- An immediate plan for staffing improvements and equipment upgrades.
Miss Rwanda 2020, Nishimwe Naomie, one of the wedding attendees, voiced her frustration publicly, saying, “The experience felt like being uninvited guests in a poorly arranged venue. At times, we acted as if we managed the hotel ourselves despite paying full fees.”
Following RDB’s closure announcement, Miss Naomie took to Twitter to share a message of relief and highlight the importance of accountability. She wrote, “Our concerns were met with criticism, but the latest revelation of the hotel operating without a license validates our complaints. This signals deeper issues of responsibility and service excellence.”
Her sentiments resonated with many online, who applauded the courage shown by wedding attendees. They credited the complaints for prompting quick action by RDB.
In response to the allegations, Château Le Marara issued a letter dated July 14, 2025. They acknowledged the power outages but insisted the problem was promptly resolved. The management further dismissed accusations of inadequate food service and argued that demands made by Musemakweli were neither documented nor formally approved.
Earlier this month, Château Le Marara was thrust into the limelight after hosting the wedding of Musemakweri and Bonnette. The high-profile event saw attendance by prominent figures, including previous Miss Rwanda winners Nishimwe Naomie and Nshuti Divine Muheto.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE DISCUSSION ON THE CLOSURE OF CHATEAU LE MARARA