Kigali, 11 May 2018 –The Government of Rwanda has established a team to speed up the relocation of high risk zones dwellers, whose lives and property are threatened due to weather-related disasters. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente said that relief operations and relocations have already started in all areas that were affected: “Like many parts of the world, we are facing unprecedented effects of climate change. The Government of Rwanda is working on sustainable solutions to the threats of natural disasters,” he said Early this week, the Prime Minister together with several cabinet members and other officials visited Karongi, Rutsiro, Rubavu, Ngororero, Nyabihu, Gakenke and Burera districts to assess the state of the damage caused by recent heavy rains and reassure citizens of government assistance. In particular, Prime Minister Ngirente met with and offered support to residents of Karongi and Ngororero districts who were heavily affected by the disasters. The Government of Rwanda continues to provide basic assistance to the population of various areas affected by disasters. From the beginning of this year, the Government has provided iron sheets worth over RWF 141 million, over RWF 200 million of basic utensils as well as emergency financial support to affected families. The team that has been put in place comprises several ministries including those in charge of disaster management (MIDIMAR), Social Welfare (MINALOC), Infrastructure (MININFRA), Environment (MOE), Health (MoH), Agriculture and Livestock (MINAGRI) as well as Defence (MOD). The team is working very closely with local governance institutions.