Rwanda Partners with Japan to Strengthen Disaster Management

Kigali, 13 March 2026 - Rwanda is learning from Japan to improve its ability to prevent and respond to disasters including earthquakes, floods, landslides, and lightning, which have historically caused loss of life, damaged infrastructure, and cost the country heavily in repairs. The knowledge exchange is taking place through a two-day conference in Kigali, which began on 12 March 2026. Activities showcased 12 Japanese companies offering technologies designed to prevent disasters before they occur and respond efficiently when they do. Japan, situated near the Pacific Ocean, is among the world’s most disaster-prone nations, regularly affected by tsunamis and earthquakes. The conference also commemorates the over 15,900 people who died and the 2,500 still missing from the 11 March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan. According to Gen. Maj. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, Rwanda’s Minister of Disaster Management, researchers attending the conference, including those from the University of Rwanda, are studying Japanese approaches to early disaster detection, evacuation planning, and preventive measures. “These two days are for us to meet and learn how they work, but now the advantage is that schools and university researchers have also come, so they can continue research for Rwanda’s needs,” he said. Japanese Ambassador to Rwanda, Kazuya Nakajo, emphasized the potential impact of Japanese technology on saving lives and supporting Rwanda’s economic growth. “I believe that Japanese technology and the NST2 development plan will play a role in preventing disasters and promoting continued economic growth in Rwanda. Together, we can deal with these disasters effectively,” he said. Rwanda is already implementing programs such as tree planting to reduce landslides and erosion, alongside initiatives to combat deforestation. Japanese company Jibu Gaz One Ltd. showcased an innovative solution for providing affordable gas to low-income households. Traditionally sold in six-kilo cylinders, Jibu Gaz now offers 1, 2, or 3-kilo cylinders, costing 1,600 Rwandan francs per kilo, helping households avoid returning to charcoal or firewood, a key contributor to deforestation.