A report from MINEMA indicates that the Northern and Western provinces are the most prone to disasters. Available data shows that 522 areas, home to approximately 22,000 households, are particularly vulnerable to disasters, especially during the rainy season.
In specific districts, the number of households at high risk includes 88 in Rusizi, 452 in Rubavu, 424 in Rutsiro, 364 in Nyabihu, and 100 in Nyamasheke.
During a discussion with members of the Senate on April 2, 2025, Murasira emphasized that the government closely monitors these areas to warn residents in advance and respond swiftly in case of emergencies.
Senator Marie Rose Mureshyankwano inquired whether research is conducted to determine the type of soil in different regions to help guide land use planning.
"For example, Nyabihu district frequently experiences natural disasters, and researchers have indicated that its soil is shallow, with rocky layers underneath, steep slopes, and fragile composition. Sometimes, areas are settled or cultivated when they would be better suited for pasture or forests. What measures are in place to conduct thorough research and ensure appropriate land use?" she asked.
In response Murasira responded by informing the house that each district has a land use master plan outlining what activities should be carried out on different types of land.
He stated that while the government collaborates with universities for research, they aim to integrate technology for better land analysis and disaster preparedness.
"We want to use drones to assess land conditions because there are areas like Shyira where the soil frequently shifts, and we currently lack the capability to determine the exact cause. If we had satellite imaging, we could receive detailed insights into the soil's structure," he explained.
MINEMA reports that Rwanda's disaster resilience level stands at 46%, partly due to the slow reconstruction of infrastructure affected by disasters. The country has 14 designated relocation sites for people displaced by natural disasters.
In 2023 alone, disasters in Rwanda caused damages worth over Frw222.3 billion.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-to-use-drones-in-disaster-prevention
