The Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), in partnership with the World Bank targets to build a total of 4,085 houses by 2025 for families affected by the devastating disasters of May 2023. Among these, 870 families displaced from the banks of the Sebeya River in Rubavu District, who do not own land, will receive permanent housing.
The disasters, which struck the Western Province on the night of May 2-3, 2023, claimed 135 lives and led to the destruction of thousands of homes and critical infrastructure. In response, the government swiftly initiated emergency housing efforts, constructing 904 houses in the immediate aftermath of the catastrophe. To accelerate reconstruction, the government launched the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) project, which has already completed 900 homes, with an additional 1,888 under construction.
In Rubavu, families who were evacuated from high-risk zones will be relocated to newly developed housing sites in Rugerero Sector. The project ensures that all affected residents, including those previously living in rented government-funded accommodations, will have safe and permanent homes.
Additionally, efforts to prevent future disasters are well underway. The government has completed over 70% of flood mitigation projects along the Sebeya River, including the construction of a large dam, retention basins, and reinforced flood barriers. Infrastructure upgrades, such as the reconstruction of Nyundo Bridge, will further enhance disaster resilience.
Uwimana Dancille, a resident of Rugerero Sector, Kabilizi Cell, who lost her home to the Sebeya disaster, expressed her gratitude:
“Our old houses were not strong enough to withstand the floods and heavy rains. President Paul Kagame pledged government support to restore our lives to normalcy, and he delivered quickly. My new home is one of the best in this area.”
The Minister of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, assured that “the construction and rehabilitation of homes for disaster-affected families are proceeding well, aligned with the government’s capacity.
“We secured the necessary funds and will conclude this programme by June, ensuring everyone receives their completed home.”
CERC operates in most disaster affected districts of Burera, Musanze, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Rubavu, Rutsiro and Karongi. (End)