Govt greenlights strategic relocation for road infrastructure development

In a significant move geared towards advancing the national infrastructure, the Government of Rwanda has granted approval for the relocation of residents living in proximity to roads earmarked for construction and rehabilitation across the country.

This decision, as outlined in the Ministerial Order published in the Official Gazette on December 20, 2023, encompasses the long-awaited Mukoto-Nyacyonga road, among others. The Prime Minister’s decree, following a Cabinet meeting on November 29, 2023, directed the relocation in alignment with the overarching goal of enhancing public infrastructure.

Under the law governing the relocation of individuals for public interest, only the state possesses the authority to mandate such relocations, ensuring compensation is provided to affected parties. The law defines public interest activities as those undertaken by the State, local authorities, or public institutions for the collective benefit and well-being of the people.

The Mukoto-Nyacyonga road, a crucial 36-kilometer link connecting Kigali City to the Northern Province, received an Rwf18 billion agreement between the Government of Rwanda and the Fund of the International Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OFID) in May 2022. This strategic thoroughfare aims to foster improved connectivity, reduce travel costs, and bolster business and community interactions.

Upon completion, the Nyacyonga-Mukoto road is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly along the Kigali-Musanze-Rubavu route. Rwanda estimates a budget exceeding $41 million for the comprehensive construction of this vital artery.

Mayor Judith Mukanyirigira of Rulindo District emphasized the meticulous inspection of construction impacts on local communities. Despite covering two districts, the Rulindo segment of the road spans 30 kilometers. Valuation processes will soon ascertain the number of residents to be relocated.

Additionally, the Base-Butaro-Kidaho road, spanning 63 kilometers, aims to connect Rulindo, Burera, and Musanze districts. This project, envisioned by the President of the Republic, promises improved connectivity, linking key healthcare facilities, tourist attractions, cross-border trade, and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE).

An agreement signed in September 2022 involves the Government of Rwanda, the National Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the Chinese road construction company ’China Road,’ and NPD, a Rwandan company engaged in roads construction, for the construction of the Base-Butaro-Kidaho road.

Furthermore, the Ministerial Order outlines plans for another road in the Western Province, connecting Rulindo and Rubavu Districts through Sashwara, Rega, Mutovu, Kabuhanga, Busasamana, and Muhato.

Additionally, residents alongside the Kigali Logistics Platform (Kicukiro) road leading to Bugesera are slated for relocation, marking a comprehensive strategic initiative to enhance Rwanda’s road infrastructure.