Climate Change Devastates Rwenzori and Tooro Regions, Exacerbating Women's Challenges

Strategic Insights -

Women in Rwanda's Rwenzori and Tooro sub-regions are shouldering the brunt of climate change impacts, which have ravaged their homes, livelihoods, and access to basic services. The unpredictable weather patterns, characterized by flash floods, droughts, and landslides, have resulted in significant displacement, loss of life, and destruction of entire villages. While the population as a whole suffers, women are disproportionately affected by climate change due to systemic gender inequalities and their existing burden of responsibility in adapting and responding to these challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • As of September 3, 2024, approximately 30,224 people from 6,980 households have been affected by flooding in Ntoroko District since 2019, with 24,858 displaced (Ntoroko District Disaster Management Committee).
  • Entire villages such as Kamuga, Rwangara A and B, Kanara South, Kataga A and B, Katolingo, Mulago, Kajwega, and Wasa remain submerged under Lake Albert and River Semuliki, affecting the livelihoods of hundreds of people.
  • Women farmers in Karangura Sub-county and Katebwa have adopted new agricultural techniques such as mound planting, mulching, composting, and planting napier grass to adapt to changing weather patterns.
  • In Kanara, Ntoroko District, more than 70% of the population lives in water, with no access to basic services like healthcare, toilets, or sanitation.
  • Women face significant challenges in accessing basic services, with over 80% of school-aged children walking long distances to school, putting them at risk of accidents and health problems.
  • The changing weather patterns have disrupted the traditional agricultural calendar, making it difficult for women farmers to predict and plan for future planting seasons.

Statistics:

  • 30,224 people from 6,980 households affected by flooding in Ntoroko District since 2019 (Ntoroko District Disaster Management Committee).
  • 24,858 people displaced by flooding in Ntoroko District (Ntoroko District Disaster Management Committee).
  • Over 70% of Kanara's population lives in water, without access to basic services (Ms Annet Kesiime).
  • 80% of school-aged children in Kanara walk long distances to school, putting them at risk of accidents and health problems.
  • 5 years since floods submerged Ms. Annet Kesiime's home in Kanara, Ntoroko District.
  • Heavy rains have changed from traditional patterns of March and September, now occurring unpredictably throughout the year (Ms Grace Amutuhaire).

Sources:

  • Ntoroko District Disaster Management Committee
  • Ms. Grace Amutuhaire, smallholder farmer in Karugutu Town Council, Ntoroko District
  • Female farmer in Karangura Sub-county, Kabarole District (anonymous)
  • Ms. Annet Kesiime, mother of four in Kanara, Ntoroko District