Burera: 15 households without electricity appeal for assistance

Fifteen households in the Gisovu, Rutango, and Samiro villages of Gisovu Cell, Cyanika Sector in Burera District, are calling for access to electricity, lamenting that their neighboring households are lit while they remain in darkness.

Residents of these households, who have been left without power, emphasize that the lack of electricity hinders their ability to keep pace with others in terms of development. After a day of work, they say there’s little to do except head to bed early due to the darkness.

Mukahirwa and Tuyishime Theoneste, residents of different villages, expressed frustration, citing difficulties in even addressing issues like theft. They explained that in the absence of lighting, it’s almost impossible to identify or pursue intruders, let alone catch them.

Mukahirwa said:
“Others have had electricity for a while now, but we’ve been left out. They even promised us solar power, but that too never happened. How is it that other households get power, leaving 15 of us in darkness? We’re not happy about it. That’s why we’re pleading with authorities to investigate this issue and find a solution.”

Tuyishime Theoneste added:
“The problem began when they provided electricity to others but left out 15 households, including mine. We raised this concern during a community meeting, and they assured us that no one would be left without power. However, when the electricity was finally turned on, three days passed, and we were still excluded. What’s worse is that we had already purchased all the necessary materials and installed the wiring. It’s disheartening because there are four electricity poles lying unused nearby, which locals believe were meant for us.

We’re left asking, ‘Why didn’t they set up a connection for us?’ Take me, for example—I’m a cyclist. You know that by 6 PM, I’m done with work. I should be able to return home, set up a small shop, and sell essential items. But now, all I can do is sleep early. This lack of electricity pushes development further out of reach.”

Burera District Mayor, Mukamana Soline, acknowledged the residents’ frustrations, especially seeing electricity cables pass over their homes without them being connected. She reassured them that the issue is being addressed as part of ongoing government initiatives.

She said:
“When it comes to electricity and water infrastructure, the projects are ongoing. Seeing power lines pass over your home while you remain unconnected is understandably upsetting. However, this is part of the government’s five-year plan, supported by various partners. I can assure you that no one will be left out, and electricity will reach every home. It’s something we work on daily.”

The Mayor also emphasized that the district is collaborating with local authorities to address such issues more effectively, ensuring no resident continues to experience the frustration of seeing power lines overhead without access. She highlighted that electricity coverage in Burera District currently stands at 70% and assured residents that efforts are ongoing to achieve full connectivity.