Africa-Press – Rwanda. At least 26 homes have been damaged in Ngoma District since March due to a series of natural disasters including heavy rains, strong winds, and fires. Local authorities launched a district-wide campaign urging residents to proactively secure their homes, particularly rooftops as part of preventative measure against further damage.
According to district officials, disasters affected not only residential houses but also public infrastructure, including kitchens, toilets, schools, and electricity poles. An estimated 376 roofing sheets were blown away, while crops such as bananas, maize, and rice were severely damaged, along with electric cables and household appliances.
The most severely hit area was Rwamutabazi Village, in Ndekwe Cell, Remera Sector, where strong winds damaged 14 houses, two schools, five electricity poles, and approximately 50 hectares of banana plantations, from on May 7 to 8.
In response, a community outreach activity was held in the village, where residents joined local leaders in repairing damaged roofs. Eight homes were repaired and basic necessities for 15 additional houses were distributed.
Nathalie Niyonagira, the Mayor of Ngoma District, emphasized the importance of early preparedness.
She said: “Disasters have caused damage, but our assessments show that many of the homes affected had unsecured roofs. This campaign is our effort to prevent future losses. Strengthening a roof is relatively inexpensive compared to the damage and risks of inaction.”
The district has so far supported 53 affected households by providing emergency supplies, including 400 roofing sheets, food, blankets, mosquito nets, and soap.
Residents welcomed the initiative, with many expressing a growing awareness of the importance of disaster preparedness. One area resident, Alexandre Mushimiyimana, said: “We are seeing more extreme weather, so securing your home in advance is necessary to avoid loss.”
Another resident, Jeremiah Mugenzi, added, “The storm hit us unexpectedly. Now, we are encouraged to reinforce our houses immediately, without waiting for government assistance.”
The roof-repair awareness campaign is expected to expand to other sectors in Ngoma District.
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