About 400 cubic meters of gabions constructed along the Rwebeya water channel to avert floods

In line with environment protection and sustainable management of Natural resources, the Ministry of Natural resources funded a Rwf 60 million project which aims at constructing Gabions along the river Rwebeya to avert floods from Virunga mountains.

The 400 cubic meters of gabions which were constructed by Ex- combatants, are aimed at checking flood waters brought by heavy rains which have, in recent times, caused havoc in the area.

The floods from Virunga Mountains, especially Sabyinyo, have been the biggest threat to the lives and crops in Musanze District.

Many people have died because rains in the Virunga region were not preventable.

According to the Minister of Natural Resources, Stanislas Kamanzi, these gabions will help in checking the speed of water flow from the mountains and stop water from overflowing into settlement areas.

Stanislas Kamanzi, said that the initiative would be complemented by other mitigating measures, especially terracing on hill sides, planting of vegetation, especially bamboo along the river banks and planting more agro-forestry species.

“All households whose property is adjacent to the streams in this area should plant trees, shrubs, and terraces to control the flood and soil erosion,’’ Kamanzi said.

Hon. Minister Stanislas Kamanzi urged Musanze residents to actively participate in sustainable management of Environment as well as conserving and protecting Natural Resources.

The gabions, which were constructed using volcanic stones along the water streams, and covered with metallic wires created temporary jobs contributing to the improvement of household incomes,  

The RDF Chief of Reserve Force, Lt. Gen. Fred Ibingira, commended the reserve force for the commitment and hard work shown during the construction of the gabions.

He urged the force to collaborate with residents in ensuring security and being also a part of sustainable management of Natural Resources for future generation.

Lt. Gen. Fred Ibingira appreciated the significant contribution offered by the Ministry of Natural Resources to the realization of the construction of Gabions