Rainwater harvesting: A Key strategy to protect the environment and ensure water security in Rwanda
The Ministry of Environment in Rwanda is encouraging all citizens to actively participate in the proper collection and storage of rainwater, as effectively utilizing it has significant benefits for the environment, agriculture, and water security.
Basile Uwimana a moderator and communication expert in Ministry of Environment, through to their X page, emphasized that improper management of rainwater can lead to consequences such as damage to crops, destruction of infrastructure, flooding, and contamination of existing water sources.
He stated: “The United Nations highlights that climate change threatens water security. Insufficient rainfall and drying rivers leave over two billion people worldwide without access to clean water. We are urged to protect the rivers and lakes we live near and to properly capture and utilize rainwater.”
Globally, the planet faces severe impacts from climate change, driven by human activities such as the increase in vehicles, industrial emissions, and poorly planned settlements. These factors intensify global warming, causing irregular rainfall patterns or droughts.
The Ministry of Environment urges citizens to take measures including building rainwater harvesting systems, storing collected water in tanks or artificial reservoirs, and using harvested water for small-scale agriculture and other practical purposes.
These practices help reduce flooding, protect crops, and prevent waterborne diseases.
Furthermore, rainwater harvesting enhances resilience during dry periods, preventing the degradation of lakes and rivers and minimizing water loss. Researchers indicate that implementing effective rainwater storage systems can reduce flooding by 30–40% in areas with heavy rainfall, while also reducing economic losses to infrastructure and agriculture.
The Ministry calls on all Rwandans to view rainwater as a valuable resource and to consider environmental protection in their daily practices. As the world continues to face the challenges of climate change, it is crucial for everyone to adopt rainwater collection and storage strategies to ensure sustainable development, public health, and water security in the country.
