Mounting fears over industrial pollution have prompted the government to consider relocating communities living near the CIMERWA cement factory in Rusizi District, amid growing concerns about public health risks.

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Minister of Trade Prudence Sebahizi told senators on April 17 that residents around the cement plant in Bugarama are among those being assessed for possible relocation following environmental studies.

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The development signals a broader government plan to address pollution from industries located close to residential areas, with CIMERWA emerging as the next important focus after similar measures in Rwamagana.

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The minister was responding to concerns raised by Senator Frank Habineza, who cited the effects of industrial pollution—including vibrations, noise, and air contamination—on nearby communities.

"CIMERWA in Rusizi—people have raised concerns about pollution, including heavy vibrations and noise. Some have even claimed that the pollution led to pregnancy complications,” Habineza said.

Sebahizi said studies were conducted to identify affected areas, noting that relocating residents is, in some cases, more feasible than relocating factories.

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While relocation plans in Rwamagana are already underway, with 270 households set to move from areas surrounding SteelRwa, similar assessments are ongoing in Rusizi to determine the scale of impact around CIMERWA.

"In Rwamagana, we have already identified relocation sites and the required budget. For Rusizi, assessments are ongoing to guide the next steps,” he said.

The minister added that a team is overseeing the process to ensure timely implementation.

Residents in areas such as Ndera and Masoro – near Kigali – have also previously raised concerns about pollution from nearby industries, highlighting the broader scope of the issue.

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Sebahizi noted that industries within Special Economic Zones are generally light and less polluting, allowing nearby communities to coexist safely.

He added that there are ongoing efforts to identify polluting industries and determine appropriate action—whether relocating factories or affected communities.

"The focus is also on improving waste treatment systems,” he said. The government is also compiling a list of industries operating outside designated industrial zones, with plans to align them with national zoning policies.

"Priority will be given to communities exposed to the highest levels of pollution, while long-term measures include improving compliance with environmental standards and strengthening monitoring of industrial activities,” he added.