MUHANGA - Over 345 residents of Muhanga district, whose crops were destroyed during the construction of the Muhanga- Mukamira road, are yet to receive their compensation set at Rwf82m three years ago.

Speaking to The New Times, the residents from Rugendabari, Mushishiro and Muhanga sectors, appealed to the government to intervene.

"Most of our farmlands were destroyed and we were asked to open bank accounts. We never got any money and we have been sidelined instead,” one widow said. "I cannot afford education for my four children and my family is dying of hunger.”

The group says their property was valued and they were meant to receive their compensation within three months from the date of the agreement.

Sources said other residents in Ngororero district who were affected by the road construction have already been compensated.

The Executive Secretary of Rugendabari Sector, Aimable Ndayisaba, said that the local authorities were aware of the delay.

"The process was delayed by lack of transparency during the valuation process, some residents hiked the costs,” he said. 

Muhanga district lands officer, Aimable Mugabe, said the Ministry of Infrastructure is addressing the issue.

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