KIGALI- The Ministry of Lands and Environment, yesterday, inaugurated 90 rain water tanks distributed in Rweru Sector in Bugesera District as the country marked Water Week.

The 5,000-litre tanks which cost over Rwf790 million, were provided by the government in an effort to improve people’s welfare.

The tanks are attached to 90 homes

According to the beneficiaries, their lives have been improved since they received the tanks, and no longer need to trek long distances in search of water.

"We used to walk 15 to 20 km to fetch water, but now we can use rain water for more than two months even after the rains have stopped,” said Vincent Rukongi, one of the beneficiaries.

Robert Muvunyi, another beneficiary said: "We have managed to put up home gardens and this is as a result of this rain water.”

The government also provided valley dams for irrigation.

Environment Minister, Stanislas Kamanzi, noted that the government has stepped up a rain water harvest initiatives as an alternative way to make water accessible in the rural areas.

"If well embraced, this, rain water will increase the standard of living, especially during dry seasons,” Kamanzi said, adding that saving rain water helps in the conservation of the environment.

In a related development, the Energy, Water and Sanitation Authority (EWSA) also launched a water reservoir in Gahanga Sector in Kicukiro District. The reservoir will supply water to residents living in the outskirts of the district.

According to the Director General of EWSA, Yves Muyange, the reservoir cost Rwf 640 million.

The African Development Bank representative, Orison Amu, said the bank was glad to continue being involved in the national water development.

"We will continue supporting line ministries so that every community has access to clean water,” Amu said. AfDB granted over Rwf 700 million for the initiative.

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