Ever wondered where Kigali gets a significant portion of its drinking water? It comes from the Karenge Drinking Water Supply System. This system is vital for both Kigali City and the neighboring Rwamagana District.
Let’s step back in time. The Karenge Drinking Water Supply System was first established in 1975. Back then it could process 3840 cubic meters of water daily. This amount increased to 7200 cubic meters in 1985. By 2008 the daily output had grown to 12000 cubic meters.
Fast forward to October 2020. The Karenge system was producing 15000 cubic meters of drinking water every day. About 80 percent of this water which is 12000 cubic meters was piped to Kigali. The remaining 20 percent equaling 3000 cubic meters was distributed within Rwamagana District.
The government of Rwanda through WASAC Limited decided to expand the plant’s capacity in 2020. The goal was ambitious to reach 48000 cubic meters daily. This expansion involved several key upgrades. These include improving the raw water source and constructing new intake pumps. The raw water intake pipes are being upgraded. The intake pumping station is also being relocated. Motors and pumps are getting better capacities. New drinking water storage tanks are under construction. And a new 33-kilometer distribution pipe network is being laid.
This massive upgrade comes with a significant price tag. The expansion is budgeted at 164.3 million US dollars. Financing comes from various international partners. The OPEC Fund for International Development contributes 21 million US dollars via loan. The Exim Bank of Hungary provides 52 million US dollars through loan. Other contributors include the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and the Saudi Fund for Development. The Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa is also onboard.
This expanded plant is part of Rwanda’s plan. The authorities want to achieve 100 percent universal potable water supply by December 2024. The Karenge Drinking Water Supply System is located in Karenge near Lake Mugesera. It’s about 50 kilometers southeast of Kigali. The location in Rwamagana District in the Eastern Province is strategic. It ensures access to a reliable water source.
Imagine the scale of this operation. Fifteen million liters of water are processed daily right now. The expansion aims to more than triple that output to 48 million liters. Filtration sedimentation and chlorination are key technologies used. These processes ensure the water is safe and clean for consumption.
So next time you turn on the tap in Kigali remember the Karenge Drinking Water Supply System. It is a vital piece of infrastructure. It is crucial for the health and well-being of thousands of residents. It represents Rwanda’s commitment to providing clean water for all. The ongoing expansion promises an even more secure water supply.