Clean Water Access Expanded in Huye as Four Water Supply Systems Are Rehabilitated

The rehabilitated and extended water supply systems, namely Muhembe, Mahata, Kiduha, and Ntaresi are part of the nationwide rehabilitation and upgrading of water supply systems under the Stunting Prevention and Reduction Project (SPRP), funded by the World Bank through the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC).

The project involved the construction of 74 public water points, one pumping station, 17 new water reservoirs with varying storage capacities, the development and protection of various water sources to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply. Now at 98% completion, the project has already started providing reliable access to safe and clean drinking water to thousands of residents, schools, and health facilities that have endured water shortages for many years in Huye District.

Among the beneficiaries is Nyiraminana Francine, a resident of Muhembe Cell in Karama Sector, who has already connected her household to the new water supply. She says the project has greatly reduced both the cost of accessing water and the time she previously spent collecting it.

Expressing her appreciation, she said: “In the past, I had to pay RWF 100 for a single jerrycan of water, but that is no longer the case. We are very happy and grateful to WASAC Group for bringing clean and safe water closer to our homes. As a farmer, I now have reliable access to water for irrigating my fruit trees and legume crops, especially during this dry season, and they are thriving.”

Schools connected to water through the project

GS Vumbi, located in Gishamvu Sector, is among the schools that have been connected to a reliable supply of clean and safe water through the project. Established in 1933, the school currently serves 1,175 students. For many years, inadequate access to water posed significant challenges to the school's daily operations.

Sharing the impact of the project, the school's Head Teacher, Kalisa Ildephonse, said: “Previously, students had to bring water from home for drinking, cooking, and other school activities. During the dry season, the school spent up to RWF 50,000 per month purchasing water. Since being connected to the water supply, we now have a reliable source of clean water for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. Meals are prepared on time, hygiene and sanitation have improved, and students are learning in a healthier environment that supports better academic performance.”

The rehabilitation and extension of the four water supply systems in Huye District commenced in August 2024 and is expected to be completed in August 2026.