The project to build 48 houses for families being relocated from Sharita Island is expected to cost over 715 million Rwandan francs. The funding will come through a partnership between the Bugesera District and its development partners, while the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management will provide all the roofing materials for the houses.
Construction activities have already begun. Members of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in Bugesera District have shown their commitment to addressing challenges affecting residents’ well-being, particularly by helping the district find a lasting solution for relocating families still living on Sharita Island. These families will be moved to Kivusha model village, where they will have access to infrastructure and services like other citizens.
In early October, the Bugesera District administration held a meeting with PSF representatives to strengthen collaboration and coordination aimed at promoting sustainable district development and improving residents’ livelihoods.
The PSF Chairperson in Bugesera District, Asiimwe Joana, said the private sector took the lead in mobilizing funds to launch the project to build houses for the relocating families. She explained:
“The committee responsible for relocating residents from Sharita Island is made up of private sector members. We initiated the project ourselves — we contributed funds, started the work, and continue to lead the process in partnership with the District.”
The Eastern Province Governor, Rubingisa Pudence, praised the strong collaboration between the district and the private sector, emphasizing that such partnerships play a vital role in improving citizens’ welfare and boosting the national economy.
He stated:
“The Government of Rwanda promotes the culture of prioritizing the private sector, which also works hand in hand with public institutions in implementing national programs. Looking at key indicators, our national economy continues to grow, and the private sector contributes significantly to this progress.”
The project will consist of 48 houses built in a “2-in-1” model village style, where two families share one house. The project is progressing steadily, with land already leveled and construction activities underway.
Each house will be furnished with basic household items such as chairs, beds, and other essentials, and every family will also receive basic food supplies for about six months to help them settle smoothly in their new homes.
