Rukoba hill in Gitega commune has been experiencing a severe water crisis, with taps failing to provide water since April 2026. Residents of the area, located within the larger Gitega region, have faced significant challenges due to the prolonged interruption of their water supply. The lack of flowing water affects daily life and sanitation for the community on Rukoba hill, impacting numerous households and institutions. This persistent issue has raised significant concerns among the local population regarding public health and daily operations.
Financial Strain on Institutions
ETS Kwibuka, one of two boarding schools situated on Rukoba hill, is experiencing significant challenges due to the persistent water shortage. The lack of reliable water supply is reportedly contributing to a noticeable decline in hygiene standards within the institution. This degradation has been linked to the resurgence of skin diseases and diarrhea among the young population residing at the school. The health and well-being of the students are directly compromised by the inability to maintain adequate sanitation. The school, a vital educational establishment in the area, is grappling with the broad consequences of this infrastructure failure.
Community Impact and Hygiene Concerns
The Centre de santé Mariya Mwiza, the sole health center on Rukoba hill, faces increasing pressure as the water crisis intensifies. Its operations are directly impacted by the lack of a consistent water supply in the area. The critical role of the health center in providing medical services to the community is undermined by the ongoing water scarcity. Maintaining hygiene standards at a healthcare facility is essential, and the absence of running water presents significant obstacles to this requirement. The water shortage is leading to a visible degradation of hygiene across the hill, with the return of skin diseases and diarrhea among the young being a particularly alarming development. The situation at the health center reflects the broader public health challenges emerging across Rukoba hill due to the prolonged water shortage, noting the urgent need for a resolution.
Development Project Context
The water crisis on Rukoba hill stems from bridge construction work connecting Yoba neighborhood to Rukoba, which caused the severance of the main Regideso pipe. This critical infrastructure damage has been the direct cause of the taps running dry across the hill since April 2026. Construction of the bridge is considered a necessity for the area's development, intended to improve connectivity and facilitate economic activity. However, civil engineering works for the bridge are reportedly far from being completed, prolonging the disruption and the suffering of the residents. The community recognizes the importance of development projects but is increasingly frustrated by the lack of essential services during this extended construction period.
Voices from the Ground
ETS Kwibuka, one of the two boarding schools on Rukoba hill, now incurs daily expenses ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 FBu. This expenditure is necessary to purchase at least 50 jerrycans of water, a direct consequence of the ongoing water crisis. The school's financial burden has increased significantly as it seeks to meet the basic water needs of its students and staff. This substantial daily cost diverts funds that could otherwise be used for educational resources or facility improvements. The need to buy water daily adds a substantial operational cost, impacting the institution's budget and resources. This financial strain shows the severe practical challenges faced by educational facilities in the affected area due to the prolonged lack of a reliable water supply, forcing them to adapt to costly temporary solutions.
