Residents of Kirimbi and Gihombo sectors in Nyamasheke District have expressed their gratitude to the Rwanda Red Cross for collaborating with local authorities to construct water reservoirs, pipelines, and boreholes that have provided them with clean water. This initiative has significantly improved sanitation and eliminated waterborne diseases that had plagued the community due to reliance on swamp and Lake Kivu water for many years.
The official inauguration of these water facilities took place on March 20, 2025, marking a milestone in the residents’ access to clean and safe water.
One of the beneficiaries, a mother from the area, shared her appreciation, stating that before access to clean water, children frequently suffered from waterborne diseases, particularly intestinal worms. However, since the provision of clean water, they have witnessed positive changes in hygiene and sanitation.
“There have been remarkable improvements since we gained access to clean water. We no longer experience frequent outbreaks of diseases. Previously, we were advised to boil water, but firewood was scarce. Now, we have clean water nearby, and there are no health risks,” she said.
Mfitumukiza Eric, a resident of Muhororo Cell in Kirimbi Sector, also lauded the Rwanda Red Cross for the initiative. He recalled that before the project, residents fetched water from swamps, leading to frequent cases of waterborne illnesses.
“Our children suffered from intestinal worms due to the water we consumed. We were told to boil it, but finding firewood was another challenge. Now, we have clean water close by, which we can use without concerns. We owe this to the Rwanda Red Cross and our local authorities,” he said.
Barikayo Daniel, the head of GS Karengera-Gitwa School, emphasized the significance of the project, explaining how difficult it was to obtain water for cooking meals for students and maintaining hygiene at the school.
“We are thrilled to receive this clean water, courtesy of the Rwanda Red Cross. As a humanitarian organization, they have truly come to our aid. It was a struggle to find water for cooking, cleaning, and even for students to drink. Although we had water filters donated for students, accessing water itself remained a challenge,” Barikayo noted.
Authorities Praise the Initiative, Urge Proper Maintenance
Nyamanswa Emmanuel, Head of Development Programs in the Western Province, commended the partnership between the Rwanda Red Cross and Nyamasheke District in promoting development. He urged residents to take good care of the water infrastructure to ensure its sustainability.
“Today, we have come to witness the impact of development projects achieved through collaboration between Nyamasheke District and the Rwanda Red Cross. This is a testament to the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in achieving sustainable development. Every resident must play a role in safeguarding these facilities,” Emmanuel stated.
Rwanda Red Cross President, Karasira Wilson, also emphasized the importance of maintaining the infrastructure, including reservoirs, pipelines, and boreholes, to ensure the longevity of the project.
“Residents should take care of these facilities and treat the water as a valuable resource because water is life. This project benefits over 6,000 people, and it is crucial to preserve it for future generations. Additionally, we encourage residents to make good use of the livestock provided to improve their livelihoods,” he said.
Karasira further mentioned that although this project is nearing completion in the selected areas, there are plans to expand similar initiatives to other regions to benefit more communities.
Visit to UMURUNGA W’IBIDUKIKIJE Cooperative
After inaugurating the water project, officials visited UMURUNGA W’IBIDUKIKIJE, a cooperative supported by the Rwanda Red Cross. Abraham Gossay, a representative of the Austrian Red Cross in Rwanda, commended the cooperative’s progress.
“I am delighted to see the progress you have made. I remember when this cooperative was just starting, but today, I see significant development. There is a noticeable increase in confidence, skill enhancement, and training activities. I hope to return and witness even greater achievements, with expanded land and improved livelihoods for every member,” Gossay stated.
The clean water initiative and development support provided by the Rwanda Red Cross are expected to play a vital role in improving the lives of Nyamasheke residents, promoting better sanitation, and enhancing overall public health.
By Carine Kayitesi
