Kigali, March 11, 2026 — Earlier today, RMB Chief Geohazards Officer, Barbara Akaliza, received a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) ahead of the upcoming BOSAI Exhibition and Research Dialogue on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) scheduled  from 12 to 13 March 2026 , co‑organised with the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA).

The meeting focused on Japan’s advanced disaster risk reduction technologies and their potential application in addressing Rwanda’s geohazards, including recurrent floods, landslides, and other climate‑induced hazards that continue to affect communities, infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods.

Disaster risks experienced in Rwanda are driven by climate change, rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation, and socio‑economic vulnerabilities. In recent years, floods, landslides, strong winds, storms, and prolonged droughts have caused significant human, economic, and environmental losses. In response, the Government of Rwanda, through MINEMA, has prioritised strengthening national disaster risk reduction systems, enhancing preparedness, promoting anticipatory action, and building resilient communities.

As the national institution mandated to monitor geohazards, RMB plays a critical role in protecting communities and property, enhancing public safety, and supporting disaster preparedness and response. Geohazard data generated by RMB informs urban planning and infrastructure development, helping to reduce economic losses and mitigate environmental impacts. The engagement with JICA underscores the importance of international collaboration in strengthening Rwanda’s disaster risk reduction efforts and advancing resilient, climate‑adaptive development.