On 3 June 2026, PS Aristarque NGOGA, chaired a meeting of the National Platform for Disaster Management (NPDM), a multi-sectoral coordination mechanism that brings together government institutions, United Nations agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, and private sector actors to strengthen collaboration in disaster risk reduction and management. 

The meeting reviewed the performance and impacts of the 2026 Itumba rainy season, providing an opportunity to assess seasonal rainfall patterns, examine disaster impacts recorded across the country, evaluate response interventions undertaken by various stakeholders, and identify priority actions required to support recovery efforts and strengthen community resilience.

Participants received a comprehensive presentation on the behavior of the Itumba rainy season, highlighting areas affected by weather-related hazards, the humanitarian and socio-economic impacts recorded, and the actions taken by different institutions to support affected communities. The discussions also focused on strengthening coordination among stakeholders to ensure timely recovery and enhance preparedness for future disaster risks.

Speaking during the meeting, PS Ngoga emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing disaster risks and supporting affected populations.

"Disaster risk management requires continuous collaboration among all stakeholders. While significant efforts have been made to respond to the impacts of the Itumba rainy season, we must now strengthen our focus on recovery and resilience-building to reduce future vulnerabilities and protect communities from recurring disaster risks," he said.

The meeting further underscored the need to invest in prevention, risk-informed planning, and community resilience measures, while enhancing early warning systems and public awareness to mitigate the impacts of future hazards.

Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and leveraging their respective mandates and resources to support recovery interventions and advance Rwanda’s disaster risk reduction agenda. The discussions concluded with a shared understanding that coordinated action remains essential to building safer, more resilient communities and safeguarding sustainable development gains.

The National Platform for Disaster Management continues to play a critical role in fostering dialogue, information sharing, and joint action among key actors involved in disaster management and resilience-building efforts across Rwanda.