Dusabimana Felecien Lives in Dire Conditions After His Home Was Destroyed by Floods

In Kayisha Village, Mugera Cell, Gatsibo Sector, the story of Dusabimana Felecien highlights the urgent need for support for residents affected by natural disasters. In 2022, heavy rains caused widespread flooding across the region, destroying homes, farmland, and infrastructure. Among those affected was Dusabimana, whose house was completely destroyed, leaving him to live in precarious conditions.

The intense rainfall that hit Gatsibo District in 2022 caused devastating floods that displaced many families, destroyed property, and disrupted livelihoods. Dusabimana’s home, like many others belonging to vulnerable residents, was swept away. Local authorities at the village and cell levels promised to help him rebuild, but nearly three years later, no assistance has materialized.

Currently, Dusabimana resides at Ntungaruze Center, a temporary shelter. While it provides some protection, it is far from adequate for a stable, dignified life.

“Even though I have a place to stay at the center, it is not my home. Living this way is very difficult. I call on the authorities to expedite the construction of my house so that I can stop living in such vulnerable conditions,” Dusabimana said.

Neighbors and community members emphasize that living without a permanent home is extremely challenging. Many argue that vulnerable residents like Dusabimana deserve urgent support to avoid continued hardship, especially as climate-related events like heavy rains become more frequent.

One neighbor Ndindiyaho Emmanuel explained:
“Dusabimana has no resources and nowhere to live. Those who can help should act immediately to ensure he is not forced to sleep in unsafe conditions. This is a serious problem for him and the entire community.”

The absence of permanent shelter after natural disasters exacerbates mental and financial stress on families. Children may face disruptions in education, while adults struggle to work and maintain livelihoods. Such cases expose gaps in local authorities’ response and highlight the need for more efficient disaster relief and recovery programs.

Marceline Mukamana, the Deputy Mayor of Gatsibo District in charge of Social Affairs, acknowledged that Dusabimana’s case had not been fully documented at the district level. She assured that the issue would now be followed up:

“We were not fully aware of this case, but we are now actively following up. We will work with Dusabimana to ensure he has adequate shelter and to rebuild his house as quickly as possible,” said Mukamana.

Dusabimana urges swift action to address his situation and calls for systematic support for other residents affected by floods. He emphasizes the importance of proactive intervention to prevent others from facing similar hardships.

“I hope no other person has to go through what I am experiencing. I want the authorities to expedite rebuilding my home and help other residents in need,” he said.

This story underscores the lasting impact of natural disasters and climate-related events on vulnerable populations. It highlights the need for local authorities, civil society, and aid organizations to act promptly, ensuring that residents receive the support and protection they need.

Dusabimana Felecien’s situation serves as a reminder of the critical importance of timely intervention and community solidarity in disaster recovery.