Rusizi hotel closed over Rwf7.2 million renovation penalty
Hotel du Lake remains shut after owners appealed a fine for alleged construction violations during renovation.
A family-owned hotel valued at over Rwf400 million has been closed for months in Rusizi District following a Rwf7.2 million penalty imposed by local authorities for alleged construction violations during renovation works.
Hotel du Lake, built in the 1980s, has not reopened as its owners appeal the penalty and seek resolution with the district, stating they followed initial instructions for renovation but were surprised by the February 2026 inspection findings.
The owners appealed the penalty on October 21, requesting reconsideration and an amicable resolution to allow the hotel to reopen, but meetings with the district mayor and Vice Mayor Alfred Habimana have not yet resolved the dispute.
Why it mattersThe closure of Hotel du Lake affects the owners' investment and prevents the business from resuming operations.