The use of untreated human waste as fertilizer remains common in several districts of Rwanda, contributing to the spread of intestinal worms and other public health risks. A 2020 survey by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) revealed that this practice is prevalent in Rutsiro (53%), Ngororero (51%), Gisagara (40%), Karongi (39%), Nyaruguru and Burera (38%), Gicumbi and Rulindo (37%), and Huye (34%). The presence of harmful microorganisms in human waste results in serious health threats, particularly in rural communities where awareness remains limited. Dr. Eric Niyongira, a medical doctor in Rwanda and Global Health Advocate, noted that using untreated human excreta in agriculture exposes communities to pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that cause gastrointestinal illnesses, including diarrheal diseases. “Soil-transmitted helminths like Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) and Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) can survive in untreated waste for more than five years, contaminating soil and plants, leading to reinfection in communities,” he said. He also highlighted concerns over antibiotic residues and resistant bacteria in human waste, which can contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Dr Niyongira stressed that pathogens from untreated waste can reach water sources, contaminating drinking water and increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. “Excessive use of untreated human waste can disrupt soil composition, causing nutrient imbalances and hindering plant growth.” Limited awareness, ongoing efforts Despite the risks, some communities continue to use human excreta in traditional farming practices. A recent WASH/Social and Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC) needs assessment conducted in Bugesera and Ruhango districts found that 15.1% of respondents reported using human waste as fertilizer. Dr. Niyongira noted that public health initiatives are being implemented to promote safe waste disposal and the use of treated organic fertilizers. Ecological sanitation (EcoSan) toilets have been introduced in some rural areas to process human waste safely into compost. However, he stressed the need for stronger community mobilization and stricter regulations to lessen health and environmental risks. Gemma Maniraruta, the Director General of Water and Sanitation at the Ministry of Infrastructure, acknowledged that untreated human waste remains a challenge in Rwanda, where inadequate sanitation infrastructure leads to open defecation, contaminated water sources, and the spread of diseases like cholera and diarrhea. “The government has initiated projects to improve sanitation, including the establishment of human waste treatment plants. One of the major initiatives is the construction of modern fecal sludge treatment plants in Kigali and secondary cities. These facilities, expected to be operational in the coming years, will provide a sustainable solution for waste processing, reducing reliance on unsafe disposal methods,” she said. ALSO READ: Construction of Kigali waste treatment plant at 70% The Kigali-based treatment plant, for instance, is designed to process waste from pit latrines and septic tanks, converting it into biofertilizers and biogas, Maniraruta added. Challenges in policy and public awareness Maniraruta pointed out that despite these efforts, policy gaps and weak enforcement mechanisms hinder progress. “Rwanda has made progress in sanitation through initiatives like the Community-Based Environmental Health Promotion Programs (CBEHPP), but compliance with waste disposal standards remains a challenge,” she said. She added that high costs associated with proper sanitation services also pose a barrier. Many low-income households struggle to afford pit latrine emptying services, forcing them to resort to unsafe waste disposal methods. Without subsidies or cost-sharing mechanisms, safe sanitation remains out of reach for many, Maniraruta noted. “Public awareness and behavioral change are crucial in tackling this sanitation crisis. Although Rwanda has implemented awareness campaigns, more efforts are needed to educate communities about the health and environmental consequences of poor waste management. Many residents are unaware of safe pit latrine emptying services or the importance of connecting to proper waste disposal systems,” she stated. Experts stress the need for a multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and development partners. Integrating waste treatment initiatives with renewable energy projects, such as converting fecal sludge into biogas, could create economic incentives for sanitation investments. Maniraruta noted that training sanitation workers and waste collectors would enhance local capacity, improving service delivery and encouraging grassroots participation in sanitation initiatives.
