Kigali, July 23, 2025 – The Plenary Sitting of the Senate of Rwanda has recommended the Government to develop a comprehensive and sustainable relocation strategy for citizens residing on islands that pose risks to their lives. The Senate also emphasised the need to design a clear framework for the productive use of those islands once they are vacated.

This resolution was reached following the presentation of an Oversight Report of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights on the welfare of citizens residing on islands. 

The Committee’s report highlighted commendable progress made in relocating some households from islands deemed unsafe or lacking in basic public services. The Senate recognised these initiatives as a positive step toward protecting the right to life and promoting equitable access to opportunities for all citizens.

However, the report also highlighted ongoing gaps, particularly in access to essential infrastructure such as clean water, electricity, education, healthcare, markets, and services, including communication, local governance, and financial inclusion.

In response, the Senate requested that the Government develop a detailed relocation roadmap supported by a realistic implementation timeline, ensuring that the remaining island dwellers are relocated in a manner that respects their fundamental rights and guarantees their meaningful participation in the decision-making process. Furthermore, the Senate recommended that, in the interim, residents still living on islands be granted access to basic services to ensure a dignified standard of living.

During its oversight activities, the Committee held consultative meetings with relevant stakeholder institutions, including the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC), the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), the National Land Authority (NLA), and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).