The project, part of Japan's Supplementary Budget for FY2025, is aimed at improving access to health, nutrition, and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services in six border districts: Rubavu, Nyabihu, Karongi, Rusizi, Nyamasheke, and Rutsiro. The initiative forms part of a larger Japanese contribution of approximately $2.5 million released in 2023 and 2025, which has already enabled the rehabilitation of water supply systems in Nyamasheke and Rusizi, benefiting thousands of residents.
The new funding will directly impact nearly 115,000 people, with a focus on restoring damaged infrastructure and ensuring safe, climate-resilient water supply services. Rutsiro District, which experienced significant damage to its water systems, is a key beneficiary.
Kazuya Nakajo, Ambassador of Japan to Rwanda, said the funding aligns with Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).
He noted that the $2.5 million support will reach more than 100,000 beneficiaries, addressing stunting and advancing universal health coverage to help end endemic diseases.
Gemma Maniraruta, Director General of Water and Sanitation at the Ministry of Infrastructure, said past Japanese grants achieved about 94 percent of physical progress and that the new funding will sustain and expand these gains.
She emphasised the importance of technical support, noting, 'We are requesting a technical team to maintain the existing projects, and we submitted a proposal in 2024. Considering our shortage of expertise, we hope this request will be considered.'
Lieke van de Wiel, UNICEF Representative in Rwanda, highlighted the strain that climate change and disasters have placed on health and water systems.
'The contribution will strengthen essential health, nutrition, and WASH services, helping to save lives today, prevent disease, and build resilience for the future,' she said, adding that UNICEF will ensure diligent implementation through monitoring and reporting.
Officials from the Rwanda Biomedical Center and the Water and Sanitation Corporation Group welcomed the support, noting that it will improve public health outcomes, reduce stunting linked to poor sanitation, and help transition communities toward climate-resilient water and health systems.
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