New drainage system brings relief to Nyakabande refugees and host communities

There was excitement and jubilation among hundreds of Congolese refugees after the Israel Forum for International Humanitarian Aid (ISRAAID) commissioned a new wastewater drainage system at Nyakabande Refugee Transit Centre in Kisoro District.

“Wastewater has been a major challenge at Nyakabande due to the large population here. We’re grateful to ISRAAID for funding this project. If more well-wishers come on board, sanitation and hygiene at the transit camp and surrounding communities will greatly improve,” said Ms Jannattee Mukankusi, a resident of Nyakabande Trading Centre.

She noted that the wastewater problem had long affected not only refugees within the camp but also nearby residents.

Kanyabukungu LC I Chairperson Mr Robert Maniragaba welcomed the development, saying the project had brought much-needed relief from stagnant wastewater and its associated health risks.

“This project is a huge relief to our community. We are grateful for the support,” he said.

Last week, ISRAAID officials commissioned the Shs61m facility, aimed at addressing sanitation challenges and improving living conditions for both refugees and host communities.

According to Mr Abel Kunobere, the Senior WASH Officer at ISRAAID, the drainage system will significantly reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

“This facility was constructed to contain wastewater from the transit centre, which had previously clogged pits and contributed to foul odours and mosquito breeding,” he said.

Project engineer Mr William Rwanyarare said the project was completed in just 20 days and includes a six-month defect liability period.

“We’re proud to have delivered this vital infrastructure. The system features three soakaway pits to manage wastewater effectively and ensure long-term impact,” he said.

Mr Emma Munyantore, who heads the Nyakabande refugee transit centre, praised the partnership with ISRAAID but also expressed concern about dwindling support for refugee services.

“We are thankful for the efforts by ISRAAID and others, but the needs continue to grow. More support is required,” he said.

Kisoro District Engineer Mr James Karamira commended ISRAAID’s intervention and urged contractors to consider environmental safeguards during implementation.

“This project shows the value of strong partnerships in meeting infrastructure needs. For sustainability, donors should work closely with local leaders,” Mr Karamira advised.

Kisoro District LCV Vice Chairperson Mr Alex Nambajimana also welcomed ISRAAID’s support and called for the expansion of Nyakabande Health Centre III, as well as the renovation of sub-county offices.

He urged the central government to include Kisoro in the Development Response to Displacement Impact Project (DRDIP), citing its role in hosting Congolese refugees.