Rwandans tell the stories of their survival amidst a changing climate

In the heart of Rwanda, nestled in the vibrant community of Nyabihu, lives Jean-Pierre Uwimana, a father of three and a dedicated farmer. For years, Uwimana has relied on the predictable rainy seasons to cultivate his crops, which provide sustenance for his family and income for their needs. However, the once-reliable weather patterns have become erratic, posing a significant threat to his livelihood.

“These days, the rains are unpredictable,” Uwimana laments. “Sometimes they come too early, sometimes too late, and often they are too heavy, causing floods that wash away our crops.”

Uwimana’s story is not unique. Across Rwanda, communities are grappling with the harsh realities of climate change. The country has experienced a significant increase in temperature and a decrease in annual rainfall, leading to prolonged dry spells and more frequent extreme weather events. These changes have had devastating effects on agriculture, water resources, and human health.

In the village of Musanze, Marie Mukankuranga, a mother of five, has seen her family’s health deteriorate due to the changing climate. “The dry spells have made it difficult to access clean water,” she explains. “We have to walk longer distances to find water, and sometimes it’s not safe to drink. My children have fallen ill more often because of this.”

The health impacts of climate change are widespread. Increased temperatures and humidity have led to a rise in vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Additionally, extreme weather events like floods have exacerbated the spread of waterborne diseases, putting vulnerable populations at greater risk.

The most tragic consequence of these extreme weather events is the loss of lives.

In recent years, heavy rains and floods have caused landslides, destroyed homes, and claimed lives. In 2020, severe flooding in Rwanda’s western and northern provinces resulted in the deaths of over 70 people and displaced thousands. “We lost our neighbors in the floods,” Mukankuranga recalls with a heavy heart. “Their house was swept away by the landslide. It was a devastating time for our community.”

Despite these challenges, the resilience of the Rwandan people shines through. Community-based initiatives and government programs are helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. The Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) has been instrumental in promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness about climate resilience.

One such initiative is the construction of rainwater harvesting systems in rural areas. These systems collect and store rainwater, providing a reliable source of water during dry periods. “The rainwater harvesting system has been a lifesaver,” says Mukankuranga. “We now have water even during the dry spells, and it’s safer for my children to drink.”

In addition to water management, the government has implemented reforestation programs to combat soil erosion and restore degraded lands. Uwimana has participated in these programs, planting trees on his farm to protect his soil and improve crop yields. “The trees have made a big difference,” he says. “They help retain moisture in the soil and reduce the impact of heavy rains.”

As Rwanda continues to face the challenges of climate change, the stories of Uwimana and Mukankuranga highlight the importance of community resilience and adaptive strategies. Through collective efforts and innovative solutions, Rwandans are finding ways to protect their livelihoods and ensure a sustainable future for their families.