Rwanda is gearing up to provide a robust response to potential disasters, aiming to safeguard lives and offer aid to those in need. Philippe Habinshuti, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), emphasized the government’s readiness in an interview with The New Times on January 5. This proactive stance comes in the wake of warnings from the Rwanda Meteorology Agency about anticipated rainfall levels of 30 to 250 millimeters in January, raising the risk of flooding in certain parts of the country.
Habinshuti outlined MINEMA’s preparedness to handle disasters, stating that the ministry, in collaboration with other governmental and non-governmental bodies, has developed comprehensive plans and protocols for various types of emergencies. These plans delineate roles, responsibilities, and coordination mechanisms, with active command posts at the district level to monitor and report daily disaster risk status. The effective sharing of accurate information facilitates prompt decision-making, including the implementation of evacuation and preparedness measures.
To ensure swift and immediate response, MINEMA has strategically stocked supplies in designated locations and identified evacuation centers across the nation. Habinshuti emphasized the adoption of a comprehensive approach to disaster management, integrating diverse resources and mechanisms to promptly address the needs of affected communities. While precise financial budgeting may not be predetermined, Rwanda prioritizes disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, utilizing existing financial mechanisms, partnerships, and resources for mobilization when needed.
Responding to concerns about delays in establishing a Disaster Response Fund, Habinshuti noted that MINEMA, in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning and other stakeholders, is working on a National Disaster Risk Financing Strategy. The strategy aims to introduce suitable financial instruments to bolster disaster resilience at the national and local government levels.
In an ambitious move, Rwanda announced a Rwf494 billion project on June 30, 2023, to mitigate the impact of devastating floods triggered by volcanic activity. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fortifying its efforts in protecting residents and properties from destructive disasters. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente presented data to parliamentarians, revealing that floods had claimed 1,289 lives and left 2,114 individuals injured between 2017 and May 2023, in addition to causing significant damages.
In an innovative regional collaboration, Rwanda joined 10 neighboring countries in November 2023 to install sensor-equipped water level monitoring stations on rivers and lakes in the Nile River Basin. This undertaking aims to ensure early warning, construct flood-resilient infrastructure, and facilitate efficient water resource management.
As the threat of disasters looms, Rwanda’s proactive measures and collaborative initiatives are pivotal in mitigating risks, protecting lives, and fortifying communities against potential calamities.
