Over 90km of Water Supply Systems Rehabilitated in Rutsiro

Implemented between June 2024 and November 2025 under the Stunting Prevention and Reduction Project (SPRP) funded by the World Bank through the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), the initiative aims to address long-standing water shortages and improve access to clean water for communities and schools across the district.

The project focused on replacing old and non-functional pipelines, constructing new water reservoirs and water points, and protecting water sources. Rehabilitation works were carried out in the sectors of Mukura, Manihira, Murunda, Ruhango, Rusebeya, and Mushubati, where residents have struggled with unreliable or distant water sources for years. For many households, the restored systems mark a major change. “We never imagined this would become a reality,” said Emerance Murekatete, a water tap manager in Kigeyo Cell, Mukura Sector. “Children used to spend hours collecting water from distant valleys, and many of us suffered from waterborne illnesses. We are grateful to WASAC Group and the Government of Rwanda for bringing clean water closer to our homes,” she added.

Clean Water Brings Relief to Schools and Health Facilities in Rutsiro”

Alongside households, different schools and health facilities have been connected to the rehabilitated systems. EP Kigeyo A, a primary school with more than 700 students, is among the beneficiaries. According to Headmaster Nizeyimana Jean Claude, the school previously faced severe water related challenges.
“Our students used to fetch water from valleys for drinking and cleaning, often missing class time,” he said. “We also spent about 18,000 Frws monthly on water, but now we spend around 8,000. Having clean and sufficient water has greatly improved hygiene and sanitation, and our children no longer miss lessons,” He added.

Local Leaders Praise the Initiative”

Emmanuel Ndayambaje, Executive Secretary of Mukura Sector, described the rehabilitation as a long-term solution to the water access challenges in the area. He emphasized that local leaders and communities are committed to protecting the newly restored infrastructure to ensure its sustainability. The water supply systems rehabilitated in Rutsiro District include Kidakama, Bitenga, and Ryabisine-Kabuga in Mukura Sector; Kirinja and Rukenesha-Ruhimbi in Ruhango Sector; and Nyiramusenyi in Rusebeya Sector.

The completion of these projects represents a significant step forward in improving public health, alleviating water-related burdens on families, and supporting education and community development throughout Rutsiro District.