The United States government yesterday announced Rwf39 million in emergency assistance to Rwandans who lost their homes in landslides that affected three districts early this month. According to a statement, the US Ambassador to Rwanda, Erica J. Barks-Ruggles, committed the funds towards immediate emergency response activities. On May 7 and 8, heavy rains triggered landslides in Gakenke, Ngororero, and Muhanga districts which claimed 49 lives. The landslides and floods also destroyed over 2,300 houses and 3,400 hectares of crops, as well as 23 bridges. In partnership with the Government of Rwanda, the United States is working to assist the 30,000 people affected by the disaster. “We deeply regret the loss of life that resulted from the landslides,” said Ambassador Barks-Ruggles. “With this emergency assistance funding, we join the Government of Rwanda and other partners in a coordinated and collaborative effort to support affected Rwandans in rebuilding their lives.” The U.S. funding will be administered through the International Organization of Migration (IOM) and will serve displaced Rwandans with relief supplies and sanitation services. “The IOM is thankful to the United States government and the American people for their generous support,” said IOM Chief of Mission Catherine Northing. “The funds will be utilised to serve disaster affected populations with needed livelihood support, water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities that will address the critical gaps in the current response to the disaster.” editorial@newtimes.co.rw
