The Minister of Infrastructure, Amb. Claver Gatete made the statement yesterday to the parliamentary chamber of deputies as he provided explanations on challenges identified during their previous tours in different sectors between January and February 2019.
The visits were meant to assess the implementation of development programs and projects eradicating poverty.
The issue of asbestos roofs was among areas of concern.
The Government of Rwanda took the decision to eliminate asbestos roofs ten years ago over associated health risks including cancer among other incurable diseases.
When asked to provide explanations on the progress of eliminating asbestos roofings still found on public, private and individuals’ buildings, Gatete said: “The progress of eliminating Asbestos roofs from public buildings stands at 57%. The rest is 43% to be dealt with. In non-public buildings, asbestos has been eliminated at 66%. We need at least Rwf 4.3 billion to squarely address the challenge.”
“We believe the challenge of asbestos roofing on all public buildings will be completely eliminated within one year,” said Gatete.
He said, private investors are also mobilized to support government in eradicating asbestos roofs.
President Paul Kagame recently talked about the matter as he visited Nyabihu and Musanze districts during previous presidential outreach program at Busogo stadium.
He said the decision to eliminate the hazardous roofs was taken ten years ago but still exists at different buildings across the country.
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