Inside Kigali's major infrastructure upgrades

The City of Kigali is in the midst of a major transformation, with various projects aimed at easing congestion, improving housing, and enhancing sustainability. The city is taking significant steps towards investing in affordable housing, expanding urban transport, and rehabilitating wetlands. CNBC Africa's Ericks Shyaka sat down with Samuel Dusengiyumva, Lord Mayor of the City of Kigali, to delve deeper into these initiatives. Let's take a closer look at the key areas of development in Kigali and the strategies being implemented to propel the city into a more efficient, sustainable, and vibrant future. Kigali's infrastructure projects have been a cornerstone of the city's development plans. The ongoing Kigali Infrastructure Project is playing a pivotal role in constructing roads and enhancing connectivity within the city. With a particular focus on easing congestion, the city has ambitious plans to build approximately 40.8 kilometers of roads in various parts of Kigali. Roads such as Murindiga Sojiru-Sororo and Majerejere to Nyamirambo are among the key areas slated for improvement. Additionally, roundabouts like Gisimenti and the solar tube roundabout are targeted for upgrades to alleviate bottlenecks and enhance commuter experience. Public transport plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless mobility for the city's residents. Kigali has been actively working on enhancing its public transportation system by introducing initiatives such as cable cars and dedicated bus lanes. With an existing fleet of around 500 buses, including 200 recently acquired buses, the city is partnering with stakeholders like the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency to streamline bus operations. Discussions with private operators are focused on optimizing bus routes, schedules, quality of service, and fare structure to enhance the overall commuter experience. While future-oriented transport technologies like unmanned cars and electric trucks are on the horizon, the current emphasis remains on improving the existing bus network to cater to the city's evolving transport needs. Housing affordability is a key concern for many residents of Kigali, and the city is actively addressing this issue. The Kigali master plan 2350 outlines designated areas for residential housing, with a recent focus on developing low-cost housing units. The city, in collaboration with the government and local stakeholders, has piloted projects like the Mazi housing development in Gitega, offering affordable housing options constructed with locally sourced materials. With plans to expand such initiatives to areas like Nyabesindu and a target of 40,000 new housing units annually, Kigali aims to provide a sustainable solution to the housing needs of its growing population. Ecological sustainability is at the forefront of Kigali's urban expansion plans, with a strong emphasis on wetland protection and restoration. The city is making significant strides in relocating human activities from wetlands and investing in wetland rehabilitation projects. Key locations like Nyanrunga Eco Park have not only served as eco-friendly spaces but also as tourist attractions. Kigali's commitment to planting three million trees over the next five years through initiatives like Injitichanje demonstrates its dedication to environmental conservation. By balancing urban development with ecological preservation, Kigali is striving to create a harmonious and sustainable urban environment. Efficient waste management and sewage treatment infrastructure are crucial components of Kigali's urban development strategy. The city is introducing centralized sewage treatment plants, starting with the Nyabugogo district, to ensure proper waste disposal and sanitation practices across various districts. Encouraging developers to adopt modern waste management technologies and techniques is seen as pivotal in maintaining a clean and hygienic urban environment. By investing in sustainable waste management practices, Kigali aims to uphold its reputation as a clean and green city. Investment opportunities in Kigali span across sectors like low-cost housing, infrastructure development, and technological innovation. The city offers incentives outlined in the investment code, including access to utilities and a streamlined investment process to attract potential investors. With a focus on infrastructure, technology, and housing, Kigali presents a fertile ground for investors seeking profitable ventures in a growing and dynamic urban landscape. In conclusion, the remarkable transformation taking place in Kigali is a testament to the city's vision for a sustainable, accessible, and vibrant urban environment. By prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, public transport enhancements, affordable housing initiatives, ecological conservation, and efficient waste management practices, Kigali is setting a new standard for urban development in Africa. Through collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a forward-thinking approach, Kigali is poised to emerge as a model city that inspires and excites the global community.