This initiative targeted women cooperatives consisting of 47 families who were among the most severely impacted by the floods and were categorized under the first tier of the Ubudehe socio-economic classification. The relief effort was funded by the **Fondo Alaves de Emergencia (FAE)**, an initiative of **Medicus Mundi Spain**, known for its humanitarian interventions, in collaboration with **UGAMA**, a local NGO based in Muhanga. The project aimed to provide vital support to families who had lost their homes and essential materials. Many families found themselves sheltering in nearby communities after their homes were destroyed by the rushing waters and debris. The floods resulted in severe injuries and widespread crop damage, affecting plantations of beans, potatoes, maize, and tea. Additionally, the water supply system was disrupted, forcing residents to seek alternative and unsafe water sources, significantly increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. The floods also wreaked havoc on sanitation infrastructure, with latrines destroyed and waste mixing with rainwater, exacerbating public health concerns. The extensive destruction left many households without essential items, including food stocks, clothing, and household goods, creating a pressing need for food, adequate shelter, and hygiene supplies such as blankets and sleeping mats. On September 28, relief supplies were distributed to those affected by the floods, including members of the cooperatives and other community members in the targeted sectors of Kamonyi. The district official in charge of social affairs attended the distribution event, urging beneficiaries to utilize the supplies wisely, especially regarding sanitation practices at home. He expressed gratitude to Medicus Mundi, ARDE, and UGAMA for their generosity in providing humanitarian aid. Dignitaries such as Mr. Bahati and Mr. Callixte, executive directors of ARDE and UGAMA, respectively, emphasized the urgency of the humanitarian efforts and their alignment with the government’s mission to assist those impacted by natural disasters. They encouraged beneficiaries to take good care of the supplies provided. Beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the timely intervention. Seraphine Uwiduhaye, a member of the Abibumbye cooperative in Gacurabwenge, reflected on the impact of the floods, stating, “They displaced us, but now we will be able to build our own houses instead of seeking shelter.” She added, “I will forever be indebted to Medicus Mundi, ARDE, and UGAMA for initiating this program.” Jacqueline Mujawabega, a mother of 11, also shared her relief: “I sought shelter at my father-in-law’s, and moving there with my children was quite a burden. I am grateful for this aid, especially the iron sheets, as I can now reconstruct my own house.” Other beneficiaries, such as Esperance Nyiransabimana and Josephine Mukakalisa, echoed their gratitude, expressing joy at the prospect of finally having a roof over their heads and moving away from temporary shelters. As Kamonyi District begins to recover from the devastating floods, the community’s resilience, supported by compassionate organizations, shines through, offering hope for a brighter future.
