Residents near Kinigi model village demand urgent action on uncovered Sewage pits

Residents near the Kinigi IDP Model Village, located in Kinigi Sector, Musanze District, are voicing concerns about uncovered sewage pits (fosses septiques) built within close proximity to their homes. These open pits, which collect waste from the model village’s sanitation facilities, are creating severe odor issues, attracting mosquitoes, and posing serious risks of accidents, particularly for children.

Affected residents, who are from Cyabagarura Cell in Musanze Sector, explain that these pits receive waste from the model village’s toilets and wastewater from residents’ daily activities.

Kabera, one of the residents, highlighted the impact: “All the waste from the village’s toilets flows down to these pits. They were constructed without being sealed, as you can see. The stench is unbearable day and night. It’s impossible to prepare or eat food comfortably due to constant nausea from the smell. Whether in bed, in the living room, outside, or in other rooms, the odor is everywhere. These pits are a constant nuisance; they need to be closed.”

Another resident, Uwintije Speciose, added, “It’s not just the smell. Mosquitoes swarm both indoors and outdoors, biting us frequently. Many of us are falling ill from diseases caused by flies that bring intestinal parasites. Authorities should help us by covering these pits.”

Residents are also concerned about safety, fearing children may fall into the pits. One parent shared, “The area is quite open, so we’re constantly worried about children playing near the pits. We’re on edge because a child could fall in and lose their life. The local government should consider relocating us or finding another solution, as these pits are a real hazard.”

These large, open pits are located just below the structures of Kinigi Model Village. Residents note that these problems began a few months after the village was populated.

Musanze District Mayor Nsengimana Claudien has acknowledged the issue and promised urgent action. “It’s good that this issue has been brought to my attention. I will investigate how the pits were constructed and why they were placed so close to homes. We will look into solutions, possibly relocating residents or implementing protective measures. If these issues are confirmed, the consequences could be severe.”

He added, “We’ll conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best preventive steps. We aim to find a permanent solution as soon as possible.”

The Kinigi Model Village, designed with three-story residential buildings, includes a daycare, primary and secondary schools, a health center, a multipurpose hall, a handcraft center, recreational areas, livestock shelters, and paved roads, all aimed at improving the well-being of its residents. Located about 12 kilometers from Musanze town, it provides housing for 144 vulnerable families, with each home featuring three bedrooms, a living room, a bathroom, and a kitchen.

Construction of the village cost over 26 billion Rwandan francs and was officially inaugurated in 2021.