Makuza pushes irrigation controls and technology following floods

EASTERN PROVINCE BUGESERA—Following severe floods that submerged several hectares of maize and bean crops in Juru and Gashora wetland last month, Prime Minister Bernard Makuza has directed immediate steps to control the water flow in the still-flooded area. The Prime Minister wanted immediate construction of water dykes to minimize unnecessary water overflow from the Akagera River. District authorities estimate about 2000 acres of beans and maize crops were submerged last month due to floods that hit the two areas in the district. Over 2,500 families are said to have been affected. The Frw1.3 billion government project meant to regulate water levels and make the wetland more productive for the growing of maize. The project will be implemented by the Rwanda Defence Forces, who won the tender through competitive bidding, authorities say. Speaking during a recent visit to the area, the Prime Minister said the amount of damages had to come with a lasting solution. A dyke is a long thick wall that is built to stop water flooding onto a low area of land especially from a bigger water body. The long-term plan is to make at least 3000 hectares of the wetland more agricultural productive. The Prime Minister said he had been receiving uncoordinated reports about the problem that prompted his visit. “We have resolved that the work must be finished within one month. The government policy is now bent on implementation of activities because plans have already been laid,” Makuza said. The one-month deadline refers to construction of an eight meter stretch whose initial work was disrupted by the floods. “People should deviate from mere words and holding incessant meetings to actions.” Scores of residents stood at a distance metres away watching the group in consultations that lasted over two hours. The prime minister and group then had a march of about two hundred meters along the affected area with farmers who were tilling along roadside gardens. Ends