On Thursday 10th June 2021 at WASAC headquarter The Water Distribution, Sanitation and Hygiene Corporation (WASAC) and the Japan International Development Agency (JICA) signed a partnership agreement to increase access to clean water in the Eastern Province.
The agreement, which includes five (5) million US dollars (about 5 billion Rwandan francs), was signed between the Chief Executive Officer Eng. Alfred D. Byigero on the WASAC side and Mr. Maruo Shin of JICA.
It is a five-year project, which will include training for the community on water infrastructure, as well as repairs to existing pipelines. "We look forward to improving the quality of water supply to the community, sustainable planning, increased cooperation, access to rural water infrastructure and improving the level of water treatment and management," said the CEO Eng. Alfred D. Byigero.
“It is important because it will help to increase the knowledge and ability to know where all the water pipes are located. We are very grateful to JICA for its continued support in the development of the water sector. ”
The CEO carries on saying that the agreement is in line with the country's 2017-2024 goal, that all Rwandans will have access to clean water.
Mr. Maruo Shin the chief representative of JICA said the project is multi-faceted, “The project is multi-faceted but the key is to empower rural water partners such as district staff, the private sector and the community themselves. Good communication is important in this work. ”
"Clean water is important in terms of sustainable development, especially as it is a priority in the country," he said.
The Water for Growth 2018 report shows that access to clean water in the Eastern Province is at 52%, which is below the national average of 75% in rural areas. The project is therefore expected to reach the Eastern Province to the extent that the country as a whole exists.
