Nyacyinzirika river crisis threatens Bugarama rice valley
The Nyacyinzirika River, already a contentious topic among rice farmers, is now under fire for depositing stones and sand into Bugarama Valley’s irrigation canals, blocking water flow and leaving over 800 hectares without irrigation. The situation has left crops withering and farmers facing immense losses.
“We are already counting losses caused by this river. Fertilizer remains unused because there’s no water to dissolve it, and the intense heat worsens pest infestations in our rice crops,” lamented one farmer.
Without adequate water, many fields are drying out, while some farmers who had begun tending their crops may see no harvest at all.
The Water Users Association, responsible for maintaining irrigation systems, admits to being overwhelmed by the challenge. Engineer Adolph Muhayimana explained:
“We’ve tried everything, from relocating canals to dredging them with machines, but the problem persists due to heavy erosion.”
Rusizi District authorities have also acknowledged the severity of the issue. Acting District Mayor, Alphred Habimana, revealed plans to collaborate with agricultural agencies like RAB and CDAT to find a lasting solution:
“We initially mobilized community efforts, but the continuous rains and heavy water flow overwhelmed us. With additional machinery and technical support, we aim to restore water supply to the rice fields.”
Bugarama Valley, home to four farming cooperatives cultivating 1,500 hectares, is now at risk of losing production from 854 hectares. This jeopardizes the valley’s average seasonal yield of over 7,500 tons of rice, threatening food security and farmers’ livelihoods.