The Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA) has issued a stark warning regarding the heightened risk of disasters in Western Province, citing a lack of resilience in the region. Adalbert Rukebanuka, Director General of Planning, Policy, and Risk Reduction at the ministry, revealed that of the 492 disaster-related fatalities over the past five years, a staggering 317 occurred due to thunderstorms in Western Province. ALSO READ: Efforts to tame deadly Sebeya floods gain momentum Rukebanuka emphasised the results of comprehensive assessments spanning various sectors, including health, education, infrastructure, and agriculture, which shows the region's susceptibility to disasters. According to Rukebanuka, the resilience rate of Western Province stands at just 42 per cent, indicating a pressing need for proactive measures to mitigate risks. Disasters are alarmingly prevalent in Western Province, Rukebanuka said, highlighting that the recent heavy disasters incurred a national expenditure exceeding Rwf 500 billion, with a significant portion allocated to this region. ALSO: Grassroots leaders seek early warning systems for disaster management He advocated for the installation of lightning rods in critical public facilities such as hospitals and schools, emphasising the urgency of addressing illegal mining activities, particularly in Ngororero district, notorious for triggering landslides. Rukebanuka also raised concerns regarding safety measures for Lake Kivu, questioning the insurance coverage of boats operating on the lake. The emergency ministry's data revealed that Ngororero exhibited the lowest disaster resilience at 39 percent, followed by Karongi, Nyabihu, and Rutsiro at 40, 41, and 42 percent, respectively. Rubavu, Rusizi, and Nyamasheke fared slightly better at 43, 44, and 46 percent, respectively. However, Lambert Dushimimana, Governor of Western Province, underlined ongoing efforts to bolster resilience, citing erosion prevention and afforestation initiatives in the region's mountainous terrain. We are addressing various challenges inherent in our province's landscape to enhance disaster resilience, including widespread installation of lightning rods and extensive reforestation efforts, Dushimimana said. In response to thunderstorm-related fatalities, Dushimimana stressed the imperative of installing lightning rods in public venues such as hotels, churches, and stadiums, with penalties enforced for non-compliance. We strongly advise the installation of lightning rods in all public spaces, and we will enforce fines for non-compliance to show the seriousness of thunderstorm hazards, Dushimimana reiterated.
