Kigali City starts moving people from high risk zones after heavy rains damage homes

By The Inspirer

The City of Kigali has launched an operation to relocate residents living in high-risk zones, with a particular focus on those most affected by the ongoing heavy rains across the country.

Mukarusingiza Pélagie, one of the residents impacted by the recent downpours, explained that she and her children were caught off guard by the rain and found themselves homeless after their house collapsed.

Like her, Kantarama Zaojia, who has also been affected, is temporarily sheltered at Groupe Scolaire Kimisagara. Both expressed gratitude to government authorities for responding promptly to their plight.

On the other hand, some residents being relocated from Nduba Sector said that although they had been informed in advance about the relocation, they believe the government should support them in finding alternative housing.

Emma Claudine, the Director of Communications at the City of Kigali, stated that efforts are being made to safeguard the lives of those still living in dangerous areas.

She added that the sectors of Kimisagara, Kigali, and Gitega in Nyarugenge District have been the most affected by disasters within the city.

As of now, there is no comprehensive data on the total number of people who need to be relocated. However, authorities report that in Kigali Cell of Nyabugogo Sector alone, there are 275 households identified for relocation — 229 of which are renting.

The City of Kigali has urged renters across the city to avoid leasing homes located in areas that pose a danger to their safety.