Over 100 People Dead As Rwanda Is Hit By Floods And Landslides
May 07, 2023
By Maniraguha Ferdinand
More than 100 people died due to landslides and floods in Western Rwanda
On Tuesday night, heavy rains led to floods and landslides in the western and northern parts of Rwanda, resulting in the death of at least 129 people.
Most of the casualties occurred during the night when landslides and floods due to the heavy rains.
President Paul Kagame expressed his condolences to the affected families and assured them that the government is closely monitoring and assisting the situation.
In a tweet, he wrote, "My deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the landslides and floods that occurred last night in the Western, Northern, and Southern Provinces. We are doing everything within our means to address this difficult situation. I am personally following up on the response closely."
The Rwandan government has dispatched senior officials to the affected areas to assist survivors and provide aid to those in need. According to Alain Mukuralinda, the government's deputy spokesperson, more officials are expected to arrive at the sites.
The Rwanda Meteorology Agency had warned of heavy rainfall in May, which is higher than usual for this time of year. The western and northern regions of Rwanda, which have hilly landscapes and sparse urban settlements, are prone to floods and landslides due to the high rainfall levels experienced in the area.
The government is working to assist the affected families and individuals and has urged people living in the region to remain vigilant during the rainy season.
