Kigali, 29^th June, 2017- Following inferno outbreaks that have been taking place in publicly accessible and multi-dwelling buildings both in Rwanda and on the international scene,the Government of Rwanda has taken a proactive step to establish pre-emptive measures to ensure public safety from fire hazards.

In this context, the Ministry of Infrastructure in collaboration with Ministry of Local Government through Districts One Stop Centers, Rwanda National Police, Rwanda Standards Board, City of Kigali and other concerned institutions, organized a wide-stakeholders meeting, chaired by the Minister of Infrastructure Honorable James Musoni, to explore measures to ensure preparedness for fire outbreaks in buildings.

Hon. Minister James Musoni in his message urged the public to be vigilant in the procurement and use of inflammable construction materials in their buildings. He encouraged building owners to utilize the services of certified fire resistant construction materials, approved engineering contractors and registered property managers to ensure regular maintenance of their buildings. He further reiterated the need for public to always insure their properties against fire.

Participants discussed the current gaps in quality control of construction materials characterized by a lack of labeling and testing systems, reliable standards and technical specifications. Other challenges highlighted include the insufficient assessment of firefighting equipment, electrical installation as well as the lack of skills, knowledge and professionalism of staff involved in supervision, quality control and inspection. 

The meeting came up with tangible resolutions that would guide the public in fire prevention and fighting.  

1)     Government institutions mainly Rwanda Standards Board  and Rwanda Housing Authority  were urged to work closely to address the existing gaps in fire rating standards and certification of building materials against fire/combustibility;

2)     Construction Professional Bodies and Contractors should ensure that availability of the project files with all relevant information is enforced in every building project to ease the traceability of records.

3)     District One Stop Centres will have to ensure that no building is awarded an occupancy permit without the full project file assessed and approved.

4)     Architects and Engineers will ensure that their designs and material specifications conform to acceptable fire resistance standards. A list of materials to be used during construction  of  a given building  will be part of the application file for building permit;

5)     Regular joint inspection shall be strengthened and conducted prior and after occupation of buildings.

6)     Public education, sensitization and awareness on fire prevention measures; standards and regulations as well as firefighting drills be emphasized;

7)     Intense training of One Stop Centre managers; contractors; construction professional bodies and other construction service providers on fire safety requirements be prioritized;

In his concluding remarks, the Minister of Infrastructure called upon strong partnership and collaboration of all stakeholders in implementing the resolutions to ensure public safety and health in the building industry in Rwanda.