The Rwandan Senate's Economic and Financial Commission has raised concerns over poor financial management at several state agencies, including the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Corporation (WASAC). According to a report presented to the Senate, WASAC has consistently received low scores in audits conducted by the Auditor General over the past five years. The agency has failed to demonstrate good financial management, receiving "unsatisfactory" and "needs improvement" ratings.
The report revealed that WASAC has struggled to collect revenue from water supply, with a 30% failure rate due to outdated infrastructure and water losses. In 2025, the corporation produced 85.75 million cubic meters of water but only managed to collect revenue from 53.33 million cubic meters, equivalent to 62.2% of production. The uncollected revenue amounted to approximately RWF 10.4 billion. Despite a decline in water losses, senators expressed concerns about ongoing water shortages in some areas.
Several projects aim to increase water supply, including the Nzove and Kanzenze projects, as well as a planned project in the Nyabarongo River. However, the commission also identified issues with stalled projects and delayed implementation of agreements with contractors. Senators emphasized the need for improved monitoring and evaluation to ensure timely project completion.
The commission's report also highlighted issues with advance payments made to contractors before work begins. Additionally, the report covered audits of over RWF 474 million and various government agencies. Senators stressed the importance of addressing these issues to prevent mismanagement of state resources.
The Senate's Economic and Financial Commission chairperson, Sen. Nsengiyumva, emphasized that WASAC's financial management issues require special attention. He noted that the agency has not received a satisfactory rating in five years, consistently receiving low scores. Senators also highlighted other areas that require attention, including stalled projects, delayed implementation of agreements, and failure to provide essential services to citizens.
Sen. John Bideri Bond expressed confidence that the issues identified in the report will be addressed, citing recent statements by the Auditor General, Claudette Mukashyaka. Senate President, Dr. Kalinda François-Xavier, stated that the Senate will forward the report to various committees for further review and investigation.
The Senate's committees will work with relevant agencies to find solutions to the identified issues. The Auditor General's report covered 474 million audits and various government agencies.
Key points
- The Rwandan Senate will investigate poor financial management in state agencies, including WASAC.
- WASAC has consistently received low scores in audits conducted by the Auditor General.
- The Senate will work with relevant agencies to address identified issues and prevent mismanagement of state resources.
