Lawmakers question water access gaps as audit reveals low distribution performance

By The Inspirer.

Senator Mureshyankwano Marie Rose has raised concerns over the feasibility of promoting hygiene in communities facing persistent water shortages, questioning how households can maintain cleanliness under irregular water supply conditions.

Her remarks followed the presentation of the Auditor General’s report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, which highlights significant challenges in water distribution across the country.

The report shows that water supply coverage in different areas remains uneven, ranging between 11% and 56%, far below expected service delivery standards.

Senator Mureshyankwano pointed to findings indicating that some residents, particularly in rural areas such as Bugesera, go up to a week without access to water.

She questioned the consistency of service delivery oversight, asking why stronger enforcement mechanisms have not been applied to improve performance in the water sector.

The Auditor General’s findings indicate that the Rwanda Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) has not fully complied with planned water distribution schedules.

In urban areas including Nyarugenge and Remera, water was supplied only one to five times over a three-week period, instead of the recommended minimum of three times per week.

Overall, compliance with water distribution targets is reported at between 11% and 56%, significantly below the 95% benchmark set by the regulator.

The report also highlights substantial system losses, with 37.8% of treated water—out of 85.7 million cubic metres—lost through leakage and network inefficiencies.

Lawmakers noted that these losses not only reduce supply to households but also contribute to financial strain on the utility provider.

Concerns were also raised over delayed responses to reported water leaks, with residents reportedly waiting extended periods before repairs are carried out, resulting in prolonged wastage.

In addition, the report shows major delays in service delivery, with 79% of clients receiving water connection services later than expected, in some cases experiencing delays ranging from 10 to 188 days, despite a two-day service standard.

Lawmakers called for urgent improvements in infrastructure, accountability, and service efficiency to ensure reliable access to water, describing it as a critical foundation for public health and national hygiene efforts.