Handover ceremony of a Japan-funded FAO project "Responding to Water-Related Disasters: Mitigating and Optimizing Excess Water"
2026/11/5
Tuesday October 27, 2026- Together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Rwanda(FAO), the Deputy Chief of Mission, Shunsuke SAITO, participated in a handover ceremony of a Japan-funded project "Responding to Water-Related Disasters: Mitigating and Optimizing Excess Water" implemented by FAO Rwanda at Gahunga Sector, Burera District.
As part of a regional initiative spanning Rwanda and Kenya, the project had a total budget of approximately 1,200,000 USD, with around 500,000 USD allocated to Rwanda. Targeting Rutsiro and Burera Districts, the project aimed to strengthen disaster risk reduction and enhance irrigation, culminating in the construction of a water pipeline, drainage canals, irrigation systems, and disaster-resilient bridges, along with training programs for local communities and government officials on disaster risk management and preparedness.
During his remarks, Mr. Saito stated: "With the efforts of FAO, local government, and community members, we constructed drainage canals, durable bridges, and water-storage systems. These facilities will help mitigate flooding and provide a reliable supply of water for the fields during the dry season. I encourage everyone to maintain these facilities well so that the community will benefit from them in the long term."