In response to the recent disasters that struck several areas of Northern and Western Provinces, Honorable Minister Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert MURASIRA, visited affected areas and command posts in Karongi, Rutsiro, Nyabihu and Gakenke districts to the affected regions and incident command posts from 20 to 22 September, 2023.

The Minister was briefed by the heads of Disaster Management Committees (DIDIMACS) composed by local authorities and disaster response teams about the current situation, mainly effects caused, response and the key challenges.

Throughout the tour, the Minister also visited command posts established to serve as centers for coordinating related operations, ensuring communication between various agencies involved, and prioritizing resources based on critical needs.

During interactions with DIDIMACS, the Minister emphasized the importance of quick, coordinated action and assured them of government support to help rebuilding their lives of affected households.

“The government is committed to providing necessary support for recovery and rehabilitation depending on the availability of resources. Meanwhile, during this heavy rain season, you should remain vigilant, inform the public to follow safety protocols.” The Minister noted.

Furthermore, members of command pledged they must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively when disasters strike.

"We have to play an essential role in ensuring a coordinated response. The Minister's call comes at a time when the importance of disaster preparedness and response is more critical than ever. With climate-related incidents on the rise, it is imperative that we all get involved and work together to safeguard communities and mitigate disasters effects." stated the Mayor of Karongi District, MUKARUTESI Vestine.

The Western and Northern Provinces, were affected by heavy rains that caused floods and landslides during the night of 2^nd to 3^rd May 2023. The damages and losses were reported in different development sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, housing and settlement, education, health, water and sanitation, energy, and environment.

More than 10 districts were affected, losses include mainly 135 deaths and 106 injuries and 4 Health Facilities damaged, 10,942 houses were recorded as destroyed and severely damaged. In addition to this, 20 national roads, 21 District roads and 47 bridges have been damaged. Eight (8) Water treatment Plants and 100 water supply systems were heavily affected, this has led to the disruption of water accessibility to communities. Twelve (12) power plants, 12 Medium voltage lines, 9 towers, 223 low voltage poles and 50 street light poles Power Plants, were also heavily affected.