My experience in my country
major effect of climate change that I observe in my community in Rwanda is the changing pattern of rainfall. Weather seasons are no longer consistent. Rains may begin later than expected, end too soon, or occur as intense downpours followed by long dry periods. This uncertainty makes it hard for people to organize farming activities and plan their daily routines.
The hardest hit are households that rely on small-scale agriculture for survival. Crops such as beans, maize, and potatoes are increasingly damaged by droughts or washed away by heavy rains, especially in mountainous regions where erosion is common. When yields are low, families experience food insecurity and rising market prices.
Limited access to water has become more noticeable during dry months. Some natural water sources shrink or disappear, forcing residents to travel farther to collect water. In urban centers like Kigali, pressure on water supplies can result in scheduled water shortages, disrupting homes, schools, and healthcare services.
Climate variability also affects electricity supply, since part of Rwanda’s power comes from water-based sources. Reduced river flow can lower energy production, causing power interruptions that interfere with economic activities, education, and medical services.
To cope with these challenges, communities are adopting methods such as soil conservation techniques, rainwater storage, the use of climate-resilient crops, and reforestation. Support from government programs promoting irrigation and sustainable farming practices has helped, but continued efforts are necessary to strengthen community resilience against climate change