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Senate urges faster action to expand safe water access

On 10 March 2026, the Plenary Sitting of the Senate of Rwanda called on the Government to accelerate projects aimed at expanding access to safe water across Rwanda. Senators urged the construction of new water treatment plants, expansion and rehabilitation of pipelines, modernization of pumping stations, and stronger measures to reduce water losses.

The Senate also stressed the importance of regular water quality testing for all suppliers, including private operators in rural areas, to ensure citizens receive safe and clean water.

According to a report by the Committee on Economy and Finance, household access to piped water increased from 87% in 2017 to 90% in 2024, although only 16% of households receive water directly at home. The report notes ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure, including new water treatment plants and the extension of pipelines to improve supply.

However, Senators highlighted persistent challenges such as unconnected villages, inconsistent water supply, aging infrastructure, and limited water quality testing by some private suppliers due to high costs.

To address these issues, the Senate recommended that the Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) strengthen maintenance of pipelines, expand treatment capacity, modernize pumping stations, and ensure all water supplied meets quality standards.

The Senate emphasized that continued collaboration between the Government and partners is essential to achieve universal access to safe water and improve the well-being of citizens.

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