On 20 May 2026, the Minister in Charge of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, accompanied by Eastern Province Governor Pudence Rubingisa, the Mayor of Gatsibo District and other stakeholders, conducted a field inspection visit to assess the progress of Phase II upgrade works at Ngarama Hospital and the Phase II expansion of the Gihengeri Water Treatment Plant.

The visit provided an opportunity to review ongoing activities on site, assess the pace of implementation, and discuss measures to accelerate progress while addressing challenges that could affect the timely completion of the two strategic infrastructure projects. Both projects are being implemented under the Jya Mbere Project, which aims to improve living conditions and promote the socio-economic inclusion of refugees and host communities in districts hosting refugee camps.

At Ngarama Hospital, the delegation inspected the ongoing upgrade works that will increase the hospital’s capacity from 130 to 300 beds, significantly strengthening healthcare service delivery in the region. Once completed, the project is expected to improve access to quality healthcare services for both host communities and refugees while enhancing the hospital’s ability to respond to growing healthcare needs.

The delegation also visited the Gihengeri Water Treatment Plant, where expansion works are underway to increase daily water production from 2,800 cubic meters to 4,560 cubic meters. The project is expected to substantially improve access to clean and safe water for residents of Gatsibo and Nyagatare districts, contributing to public health, socio-economic development, and climate resilience.

Speaking during the visit, Minister Murasira emphasized the importance of delivering quality infrastructure that directly improves people's lives while ensuring timely implementation of projects.

"These investments are critical for improving access to essential services and enhancing the well-being of both refugees and host communities. We encourage all stakeholders to work closely together to address implementation challenges and ensure that these projects are completed on time and to the required standards," said Minister Murasira.

The visit concluded with discussions between project implementers, local leaders, and technical teams on practical measures to accelerate remaining works while maintaining quality standards and ensuring value for money.

The Ngarama Hospital upgrade and Gihengeri Water Treatment Plant expansion form part of a broader portfolio of investments under the Jya Mbere Project, which continues to support sustainable development, social inclusion, and improved access to services for refugees and host communities across Rwanda.