Residents of Rubengera Sector in Karongi District are raising concerns about the foul odor emanating from a dumpsite near the road, which they say is negatively affecting their quality of life. They are urging local authorities to relocate the dumpsite, citing health risks, especially to children who rummage through the waste.
One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, told us that the dumpsite has been in place for three months and is causing serious discomfort. “This dumpsite has been here for three months now. The smell is unbearable, and it poses a serious health risk to those of us living nearby. This waste should never have been dumped so close to people. We want it moved elsewhere,” the resident said.
Ruti Martin, another resident, expressed concern that if the dumpsite is not relocated soon, respiratory and hygiene-related illnesses will become a problem, especially among children. “We ask the authorities to find another location for the waste. You can smell how bad it is. Soon, you’ll see children coming to play in the trash, and we can’t stop them all. When they come home from school in large groups, they always end up here, searching through the waste. We need this waste to be moved far away from here,” he urged.
Some residents noted that beyond the bad odor, the dumpsite is causing other issues, such as plastic bags blowing into their farms, adding to the environmental problem. “The plastic bags are flying everywhere, making the area even dirtier. Those who work in the nearby businesses or travel along the road are all affected,” one resident added.
Jean Bernard Nshimiyimana, the acting executive secretary of Rubengera Sector, acknowledged the concerns and reassured residents that a plan is in progress to address the waste management issue.
He explained, “Regarding the waste dumped in that area, we have a study underway to help us sort the waste and find a new location for it. I assure residents that the issue will be resolved soon. The delay in removing the waste was unintentional, but we are working with specialized trucks to ensure it doesn’t cause further problems.”
On the possibility of finding a new dumpsite, Nshimiyimana added, “There is a designated area for collecting waste, which will then be transported elsewhere. The ongoing process involves speeding up waste removal and ensuring it is properly sorted before being relocated. We are putting all our efforts into resolving this quickly.”
Rubengera Sector is one of the urban centers in Karongi District, known for its business and tourism activities.
