As part of ongoing efforts to improve the living conditions of citizens, Nyamagabe District is strengthening investments in infrastructure, including access to clean water. One of the projects reflecting this progress is a newly completed 95-kilometer water supply pipeline in Kitabi Sector, which is expected to deliver safe drinking water to more than 40,000 residents.
The pipeline will supply water to four sectors Kitabi Sector, Tare Sector, Kibirizi Sector, and Nkomane Sector where residents previously struggled to access water near their homes. For many years, people had to walk long distances to fetch water from natural springs and rivers, a situation that affected hygiene, health, and productivity, especially for women and children.
Annonciata Nyirasumba, a 64-year-old resident of Ryarubondo village in Kitabi Sector, recalls the hardships they faced in the past.
“At my age, I remember how we used to walk very long distances to fetch water because there were no water facilities nearby. We often collected water from wetlands, which exposed us to diseases caused by poor sanitation, such as intestinal worms. Today, water is closer to our homes, and we no longer suffer from those illnesses.”
Jean Baptiste Ndayishimiye, a resident of Tare Sector, explains how the project has eased the burden on families. “Before this project, getting water required hours of walking every day. Now that clean water is closer to our homes, our families have more time for farming and other income-generating activities. It has truly changed the way we live.”
Hildebrand Niyomwungeri, The Mayor of Nyamagabe District, says the project will play a crucial role in improving community health and livelihoods.
“Access to clean water will help residents improve hygiene and sanitation, reduce diseases caused by poor water quality, and make daily activities easier. When water is available nearby, people also gain more time to engage in productive activities such as agriculture and small businesses.”
District authorities emphasize that the Tare water pipeline project aligns with the Government of Rwanda’s national strategy to increase access to safe drinking water. Beyond improving water availability, the project is expected to support economic development and enhance the overall well-being of communities in the sectors it serves.
Currently, Nyamagabe District has reached 74% coverage in access to clean water, while the government aims to achieve 100% access nationwide under the NST2. Overall, the pipeline water supply project marks an important step toward ensuring reliable access to clean water and strengthening livelihoods in Nyamagabe District. The initiative is expected to help residents access essential services more easily and build healthier, more prosperous communities.
