Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, has identified several high-risk areas as it braces for heavy rains expected this month. Vice Mayor Martine Urujeni has urged residents living in these vulnerable zones to relocate before the rainy season begins to avoid potential disasters.
The targeted areas include Gatsata, Jabana, Nduba, Kimisagara, Nyakabanda, Kigali, Mageragere, and regions close to wetlands. Urujeni emphasized the importance of moving to safer locations and assured that local authorities are prepared to assist with the relocation process.
In the past year, Kigali has successfully relocated over 6,000 households from hazardous areas, particularly those situated on steep slopes or near drainage systems and wetlands.
To further mitigate flood risks, the city plans to rehabilitate 65 ravines over the next five years. Efforts to repair 34 critical drainage systems were previously delayed due to budget constraints, but the city aims to complete at least two repairs annually.
Additionally, the second phase of an urban development project, funded by the World Bank, will focus on restoring five major wetlands—Kibumba, Nyabugogo, Rugenge-Rwintare, Rwampara, and Gikondo. These wetlands are crucial for managing water runoff and supporting local biodiversity.
Plans also include expropriating properties near Amahoro Stadium to improve drainage in Nyabisindu and Kabeza, aiming to enhance water management and reduce flooding risks.
The Rwanda Water Resources Board has highlighted the need for expanding the city’s drainage infrastructure to handle increased runoff and prevent blockages. Kigali is nearing the completion of a $1 million “Stormwater Management Master Plan,” which aims to improve drainage systems and flood management by mapping vulnerable areas and developing centralized solutions.
In December 2023, Kigali was selected for funding to enhance climate resilience and reduce carbon emissions. The initiative includes afforestation, agroforestry, and urban reforestation, with a goal to plant three million trees over the next five years.
