GICUMBI: Residents Decry Poorly Built Houses, Call for Stronger Oversight

Some residents of Gicumbi District say that houses built for them under government programs aimed at supporting vulnerable families were constructed below required standards, leaving beneficiaries living in difficult conditions and without proper safety.

The residents explain that instead of improving their livelihoods, the houses have exposed them to hardship, including leaks, cold, and health risks, particularly for children. They are calling on responsible authorities, especially those in charge of construction projects, to carry out regular inspections to ensure that houses built for vulnerable citizens meet quality standards and provide long-term solutions.

Gumusabe Alphonsine, a resident of Gikore Village in Mutarama Cell, Mukarange Sector, says the house she received has serious structural problems, especially in the roof and walls.

She said, “The house we were told was built for vulnerable people is not in good condition. When it rains, water gets inside, and sometimes we are forced to spend the night outside or move elsewhere. We appreciate the government’s support, but we need a house that truly protects us like other citizens.”

Another resident, Mukamugenga Chantal, from Rwasama Village in Byumba Sector, shares similar concerns, noting that the poor construction has continued to negatively affect their living conditions.

She said, “We were moved out of rental housing and given a house, but our problems did not end. This house has many openings, water leaks in, and our children frequently fall sick because of the cold. We ask for inspections so that we can be given houses that meet proper standards.”

Some residents who spoke to Radio Salus claim that the houses are built hastily, using low-quality materials, and without adequate supervision. As a result, several houses begin to deteriorate shortly after completion.

One resident noted, “The construction is rushed and not properly monitored. That is why you find houses that are less than two years old already showing signs of damage or even starting to collapse.”

On the side of local authorities, Gicumbi District Mayor Nzabonimpa Emmanuel acknowledged that some of the houses have construction defects, but said measures are being taken to address the issue.

He said, “We are aware that some houses were not built properly, especially those with structural gaps. We are following up on these cases and working with contractors and relevant stakeholders to correct what went wrong and to improve future housing projects.”

The district leadership says it will strengthen monitoring and supervision of housing construction projects for vulnerable families, including stricter control over contractors, building materials, and final inspections, to ensure public funds produce tangible and sustainable results.

Residents of Gicumbi District continue to call for consistent oversight of such projects, arguing that poorly executed assistance fails to improve their living standards and instead adds to their daily struggles.