By Joshua Niyonshima
The residents of Busengo and Buhoozi Parishes in Nyarubuye and Busanza Sub Counties in Kisoro district are counting heavy losses after landslides that occurred in 2021 destroyed road access and damaged several homes.
The LC2 Chairperson Busengo Parish Niyonzima Callist said, over the weekend heavy rains left two homes completely destroyed, while both major and access roads are still impassable.
Niyonzima says district authorities especially from the works department always make promises to solve the problem permanently but it often ends in lip service.
“This is not the first time this is happening in our area, the most recent disaster has left several homes destroyed and the roads completely impassable, the leaders have come in the past, written down names of those affected promising assistance but it always ends there, Niyonzima explained.
Niyonzima’s comments come following a serious outcry by the people of the two parishes of Busengo and Buhoozi Parishes in Nyarubuye and Busanza Sub Counties who say they can no longer do business because their merchandise has nowhere to pass.
The residents also blame the district for its shallow interventions which are not long lasting but have more of a band aid effect.
Those who spoke on condition of anonymity said the people of Nyarubuye and Busanza voted overwhelming for the sitting Government (NRM) which should not forget them.
No Emergency Fund for the District
The Kisoro district LCV Chairperson Abel Bizimana has said the district does not have an emergency fund to handle natural disasters.
Kisoro district which is known for its hilly terrain and highly fragmented land is prone to natural disasters often caused by heavy rains.
However, funds collected from Local revenue are hardly enough to channel funds into an emergency fund, according to Bizimana.
“We often operate at the mercy of understanding businessmen like Boniface Halera of Kindly Petrol Station who gives the district fuel on credit in order to get some work done but it is not sustainable”, Bizimana said.
He however called on the communities not to look to Government longingly but revive Bulungi Bwansi programs to help clear some of the access roads, instead of resigning their fate to Government which has long bureaucratic processes.
Kisoro Deputy Resident District Commissioner Ndikumwami Dan said the district Engineer and his team will ensure the roads are cleared adding that all households that were affected need to register and wait for Government intervention.
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