Over 130 people have lost their lives after catastrophic flooding followed heavy rainfall during May 2nd and 3rd of this year in Rwanda. The worst affected areas were in the Northern and Western provinces, including Ngororero, Rubavu, Nyabihu, Rutsiro, and Karongi, where Comfort International supports a number of communities. We were much relieved to hear that none of the project members have perished in this tragedy, but our hearts are broken for the many families that have been torn apart in this disaster.
Rwanda is one of the most densely populated countries in Africa, with a population density of 525 per Km2 (1,360 people per mi2) (worldometers.info). Added to this, it is a landlocked, mountainous country which makes it prone to flooding. Climate change is causing a drastic increase in the frequency and severity of flooding throughout Africa. The UNDP says there has been a 134% increase in climate-related flooding disasters since the year 2000.
Comfort International has two partners working in the areas affected by the floods. Good News International (GNI) works with communities in Mbuga, Karengera, Gishyita and many others, facilitating a number of projects including income generating activities, community partnerships and social and emotional care. Clement from GNI says, “The calculations show that the value of the damage goes up to 45 billion Rwandan francs, including family houses, animals, health facilities, roads etc. Those whose houses were completely destroyed are now accommodated in government building like schools, and others in churches. The government are providing food for them. Different NGOs in Rwanda are working hard to find food for all people who were affected because even those who still have their home had their crops taken by floods.”
Comfort Rwanda, who work largely with Street Kids Rescue and Mums and Babies Projects, also reported on the floodings. Director David Gasana writes, “Some Comfort Rwanda beneficiaries have been reuniting with their families in different provinces and sometimes they decide to stay with their families. Among Comfort Rwanda beneficiaries living away in Western or Northern provinces, only one was affected by the floods. Jackson lives with his mother after he left Gasanze project and was reunited with her in the Westen province (Kibuye). His mother advised that they run away when water came inside the mud house and the foundation became very wet to a level of falling to the ground. With project support they were evacuated immediately and are staying in a different house for their safety.
While we are deeply grateful that all of the project members, from each of our partners in Rwanda, are safe, we mourn intensely the devastating loss of life following this disaster. We also recognise the long road of recovery ahead; both emotional and psycological, subsequent to the fear and grief of such a tragedy, but also practically. Even those who still have their lives and even their homes have suffered greatly with land, crops, livestock and with this, their livelihood being washed away. Comfort International and our partners will continue to support these communities wherever we can and ask for your continued prayers for those affected.