Residents of Giti Sector in Gicumbi District have raised concerns over the persistent lack of clean water, despite the presence of water points in their area. They allege that water is only supplied when high-ranking government officials are expected to visit.
One resident, Ngendahimana, told Umuseke that, “We are shocked. It has been over a month without water from the taps we were provided, and using dirty water is causing diseases like intestinal worms in our children.”
Another resident, Nyiraneza, criticized the situation, saying the taps have been dry for a long time, leaving them without any reliable water supply. “The pipes are dry because there’s no water flowing through them. But whenever we have important visitors, we’re surprised to see water being sent to us!”
She emphasized that residents need a consistent water supply to maintain hygiene for themselves, their children, and their households, rather than sporadic access tied to official visits.
Jean Marie Vianney Bangirana, the Executive Secretary of Giti Sector, acknowledged that some areas lack water but claimed the sector generally has water coverage. “We are aware of the water issue here. Sometimes water is unavailable for two or three days, but we have contacted the contractor responsible, and they assured us they are working on it. Residents need clean water, and we will continue collaborating to find a solution,” he said.
However, local residents refute this, insisting they have gone an entire month without water.
Water shortages are a widespread issue across many sectors in Gicumbi District, with residents urging the Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) to address the problem.
Meanwhile, Gicumbi District authorities maintain a different narrative, claiming that clean water is accessible to 94% of the population.
Gicumbi District, which has 21 sectors—the highest number in Rwanda—is part of the Northern Province. It spans an area of 829 square kilometers and shares borders with Burera District and Uganda to the north, Nyagatare and Gatsibo Districts to the east, Gasabo District and a small part of Rwamagana to the south, and Rulindo District to the west.
The district is home to 442,502 residents, according to the most recent data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).
