KIGALI, Rwanda — Rwandan authorities are stepping up disaster-prevention efforts to reduce the risk of El Niño-linked heavy rains and floods.
According to emergency service officials in Kigali, 526 homes have been identified in risky zones, and authorities are facilitating their relocation as a precaution. So far, about 78 per cent of the homes have been relocated through financial assistance and emergency relocation centres. Pictures from residential areas show damaged and collapsed structures, along with debris caused by the rains.
Emma Claudine, Kigali City spokesman, confirmed the relocation: “Up to now, about 78 per cent of these homes have been relocated from risky zones.” She added that officials were monitoring homes that have not yet been relocated to enable a quick emergency response if conditions worsen.
Although most people understand the need to move, some fear alternative accommodation. Francoise Musengimana, one of the residents, stated that “there is no issue with the relocation. What worries me is that I am being asked to relocate when I do not have an alternative place.”
The measures come after deadly flooding and landslides that occurred in May 2023, resulting in over 130 deaths and the destruction of many homes. Meteorologists have been using early warning systems to build preparedness in critical areas. According to Ousmane Ndiaye, Director General of the African Centre of Meteorological Applications for Development, seasonal models can predict weather abnormalities months in advance.
View the full video report below
[This current affairs report item is provided as part of Broadcast Media Africa (BMA)’s mandate to keep Africa’s broadcast media audiences and stakeholders informed on international developments in local and global humanitarian and public service broadcasting.]
