Rwanda Takes Major Step Toward Inclusive Water Governance with Launch of Gender Mainstreaming Strategy

KIGALI, March 26, 2026 – To mark World Water Day 2026, the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has officially launched its Gender Mainstreaming Strategy, a landmark framework aimed at ensuring that water resource management in Rwanda is inclusive, equitable, and resilient.

The Strategy addresses long-standing gaps in infrastructure planning and water governance, particularly in projects such as dams and flood control systems, which have historically overlooked the distinct needs of women and vulnerable groups. By placing gender considerations at the center of policy, planning, and implementation, RWB seeks to transform how water investments benefit communities and strengthen climate resilience.

Speaking at the launch, Eng. Richard Nyirishema, RWB Executive Chairperson, highlighted the necessity of the shift: “Our internal assessments revealed that while our instruments were designed to be gender-neutral, they often overlooked the different realities of women and men. While women bear primary responsibility for household water, they remain underrepresented in decision-making. This is not just a social imbalance; it is a structural weakness affecting our sector’s effectiveness and climate resilience.”

The Strategy aligns with the Government of Rwanda’s commitment to equality and inclusive development. It envisions a future in which women, youth, and persons with disabilities play meaningful leadership roles in water governance, influencing decisions on allocation, conservation, infrastructure development, and climate adaptation.

Speaking to this governmental commitment, Mrs. Mireille BATAMULIZA, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, stated: “The launch of this Strategy is a significant milestone in our journey toward inclusive water resources management. In Rwanda, gender promotion is not merely a policy—it is a constitutional mandate driven by the visionary leadership of H.E. President Paul Kagame”

She added that “Our National Gender Policy is transformative; it moves beyond simple representation to dismantle the power relations that hinder equal opportunities. Gender mainstreaming is a cross-cutting priority essential for every productive sector.”

 While women have historically been underrepresented in water governance, the launched strategies demonstrate that Rwanda is actively tackling these structural gaps.

“I commend the Rwanda Water Resources Board for this achievement and urge leaders across all institutions to adopt this model.” Mrs. BATAMULIZA said

“To our development partners: your continued support remains vital as we build a Rwanda where every citizen has an equal seat at the table of development.” She concluded

Representing the Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS), Mrs. Jacqueline Ntukamazina emphasized the importance of long-standing collaboration and inclusive approaches.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) on this essential journey toward gender mainstreaming.” She said.

“ Our collaboration is not new; for the past years, we have been joining our efforts to promote our shared mission. For too long, water infrastructure like dams and flood control systems has been designed through a ‘gender-neutral’ lens.” Mrs. Ntukamazina explained

However, she adds “being neutral often means overlooking the different realities and burdens borne by women. We are happy that this strategy ensures that women, youth, and persons with disabilities are no longer just beneficiaries, but influential leaders in water governance.”

She further highlighted that inclusive water governance is closely linked to environmental restoration and community resilience efforts implemented by ARCOS and partners across Rwanda.

Beyond the strategy launch, the celebration also showcased innovation and youth engagement in the water sector.

The winners of the 3rd Water Resources Modelling Hackathon, jointly organized by RWB and ARCOS, were recognized for developing data-driven solutions to Rwanda’s water challenges.

The Hackathon is implemented through the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP), supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Government and funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV).

By bringing together university students, researchers, and young innovators, the initiative demonstrates the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable water management and climate adaptation strategies for the country.

The event also reflected the strengthening partnership between RWB, ARCOS, government institutions, and development partners, a collaboration that continues to drive forward innovative, inclusive, and science-based approaches to water resource management.

As Rwanda continues to confront the impacts of climate change, population growth, and environmental pressures, the Gender Mainstreaming Strategy represents a decisive step toward ensuring that no one is left behind in the stewardship of the nation’s water resources and that communities across the country can build a more resilient and water-secure future.