As Rwanda enters its peak rainy season, authorities are calling on road users to exercise extra caution due to the increased risk of accidents and road damage caused by landslides and flooding.
Every year, heavy rainfall affects road infrastructure, particularly in mountainous districts such as Rubavu, Nyabihu, Musanze, and Rutsiro where landslides and soil erosion frequently block or destroy roads. The disruptions often hit hardest during the September–December and March–May rainy periods, when drainage systems struggle to cope with excess water.
These conditions pose daily challenges for commuters, farmers, and transport operators whose livelihoods depend on reliable road access.
Emmanuel Ntawuruhunga, a public transport driver operating on the Kigali–Muhanga route, said the rainy season significantly affects his work.
“It is not easy, especially when we find landslides blocking the road,” he noted. “However, we appreciate the Rwanda National Police for constantly reminding drivers to be cautious during these times.”
Motorcyclists face similar struggles. “When it rains, passengers are few and it becomes difficult to control the motorcycle safely,” said Nyiramana Odette, a rider in Muhanga City.
“Sometimes we have to stop working completely. We just wish for better and safer roads,” she added.
The Rwanda National Police, through its Traffic and Road Safety Department, has issued a strong safety appeal to road users.
Speaking to ICK News, SP Emmanuel Kayigi, the department’s spokesperson, urged motorists to take safety seriously during rainy periods.
“Drivers should reduce speed, keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and avoid using roads that are flooded,” he said. “It is also important to turn on dipped-beam headlights for visibility and make sure that vehicles are properly maintained, including tires, brakes, lights, and wipers.”
He also reminded pedestrians to remain cautious.
“People walking should avoid areas where water is flowing on the roads and should not seek shelter under trees or other unsafe structures like bridges,” he said.
Beyond immediate precautions, the government is working to reduce long-term road vulnerability. The Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) are upgrading roads, reinforcing drainage systems, stabilizing slopes, and deploying rapid-response repair teams under climate-resilience projects.
A road under upgrade to reduce damage caused by landslides and flooding