The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has initiated the installation, configuration, and calibration of advanced radar sensors (RQ30-ADMS) in flood-prone areas of the Volcano Region, as part of the Volcanoes Community Resilience Project (VCRP).

In recent years, this region has witnessed a sharp increase in the frequency and intensity of flooding events, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure, and disruption of livelihoods.

To address these growing threats, RWB is implementing the Volcanoes Community Resilience Project (VCRP); a multi-district initiative targeting Musanze, Burera, Rutsiro, Rubavu, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Muhanga, and Gakenke Districts. 

The project aims to strengthen climate resilience, improve natural resource management, and safeguard vital tourism assets across the Volcanoes and Vunga corridor regions.

Under Sub-Component 1.2 of the project, VCRP is prioritizing the development of a Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) to reduce the risks posed by recurrent floods.

At the heart of this system is the deployment of 15 advanced hydrological telemetric stations equipped with RQ30-ADMS radar sensors.

These sensors are being strategically placed in high-risk areas to collect and transmit real-time hydrological data, supporting accurate flood forecasting and enabling timely emergency responses.

So far, three stations have already been installed at the rivers of Nyundo-Sebeya, Karambo, and the gully of Muhabura-Mbandama located in Burera and Rubavu Districts.

The new radar sensors represent a significant technological upgrade from previous systems. While earlier sensors offered basic water level monitoring, the RQ30-ADMS units provide both water level and flow measurements with high precision. 

They also feature remote connectivity via IP technology, allowing technical teams to monitor, reconfigure, and troubleshoot systems remotely, enhancing efficiency and reducing response times during emergencies.

By adopting this advanced infrastructure, RWB aims to enhance national resilience to flood risks, protect lives and property, and support sustainable development in vulnerable regions.