Call for prevention measures after disasters kill 35 people since September

At least 35 people have been killed by disasters since September 1, according to figures from the Ministry of Emergency Management. Data obtained by The New Times show that 69 people were injured over the same period, as strong winds and floods continued to affect communities across the country. ALSO READ: Rwanda strengthens telecom systems for disaster response The ministry also recorded damage to 415 houses, 227.7 hectares of crops and 13 hectares of forest destroyed by wildfire, along with the loss of 19 cattle, and destruction to 23 classrooms and 13 electricity lines. This comes as the ministry sent out an alert for heavy rains, flash flooding and windstorms in between October 23 and 31. Speaking in Kigali on October 23 during the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, said many interventions remain focused on providing support after disasters occur, increasing the scale of losses. ALSO READ: Rwanda to use artificial intelligence in disaster management He noted that prevention can significantly reduce the destruction of property and save lives. “When you put more effort into prevention, you reduce the impact of disasters, including the loss of lives and property,” he said. He cautioned that some households continue to build in high-risk areas or use weak construction materials, later relying on Government assistance. The minister emphasised the need for communities and institutions to assess whether their activities increase vulnerability. According to government estimates, Rwanda loses between $190 million (approx. Rwf275.7 billion) and $300 million (Rwf435.4 billion) each year due to disaster impacts, including damaged infrastructure, disrupted economic activity and reduced livelihoods.

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Call for prevention measures after disasters kill 35 people since September