Kigali-new reports from Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) reports reveal that Rwanda’s eastern and southern provinces have been the most affected by climate change over the past seven years, with districts including Gatsibo, Kamonyi, Ngoma, Ngororero, Nyagatare, and Gisagara suffering the heaviest blows.
Faustin Munyazikwiye, Deputy Director General of REMA, highlighted the shared vulnerability:
“These districts are more vulnerable than others. The common factor is the citizen’s capacity to cope with disasters,” he said. “In places like Gisagara, Ngoma, Nyagatare, and Gatsibo, drought is the recurring threat the sun stays too long and dries up everything. But what unites them is how well citizens can stand against it.”
Between 2014 and 2023, climate disasters claimed over 1,500 lives and injured more than 2,300 people. In response, Rwanda has rolled out major adaptation projects, including the flagship Green Gicumbi initiative, reforestation, clean cooking programs, and improved water management.
Munyazikwiye pointed to visible progress: “There has been a huge transformation in the hills trees planted, schools and institutions shifting from firewood to gas. there was massive project in Amayaga region, implemented by REMA together with the ministry of environment and other institutions, all these efforts are helping districts build resilience.”
Experts urge all sectors to use the reports’ data and recommendations stronger flood control, better irrigation, and rainwater systems to fast-track national climate goals and protect citizens’ livelihoods.
Naomi Irakoze Mugaragu.