Residents of Rukongi Parish in Nyarusiza Sub- County, Kisoro District, are living in fear of a looming famine after heavy rains washed away gardens and damaged key roads in the area.
The heavy downpour, which started on Monday this week, destroyed several onion gardens belonging to more than 200 households. The rains also damaged the road leading to Mt. Muhabura, disrupting transport and tourism activities.
Several roads, including the Gasiza–Kanyakwezi road, were severely damaged, while bridges were swept away. The bridge connecting Musasa to Kabonero was particularly affected, leaving tourism vehicles stranded and paralyzing movement within the area.
Affected residents, many of whom had heavily invested in onion growing and tourism-related activities, say they are now struggling to survive. They are appealing to government for urgent intervention in the form of financial relief and food assistance.
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The LC1 Chairperson of Nyagihenge Village, Gasis Karaveri, confirmed that numerous gardens were destroyed and expressed concern about the survival of residents. He criticised district authorities and top leadership for what he described as delayed response to the disaster, saying the community feels neglected in its time of need.
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The LC2 Chairperson, Ngaruye Pronari, said residents have resorted to community efforts to restore access to affected areas. He added that pupils have been unable to attend classes at Rukongi Primary School due to impassable roads, and called for immediate government support.
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Meanwhile, the Kisoro Branch Manager of the Uganda Red Cross Society, Gad Kanyesigye, says that they have verified about 55 onion gardens that were destroyed by heaven downpour. He urged communities to report disasters promptly to relevant authorities.
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