Kigali Leaders Chart Vision for Urban Excellence at City General Assembly

The City of Kigali General Assembly held on June 24, 2025, brought together leaders from village level to top city management to reflect on the city’s development trajectory, address persistent challenges, and align efforts towards building a sustainable and well-managed urban future.

Held under the banner of inclusive leadership and sustainable urbanization, the assembly served as a forum to assess progress across key sectors including housing, infrastructure, service delivery, and environmental management.

In his keynote address, the Mayor of the City of Kigali, Samuel Dusengiyumva, emphasized the city’s ambitious vision to become “the Centre of Urban Excellence in Africa.” He stressed the importance of strategic leadership, sustainable economic growth, and high-quality service delivery as the cornerstones of Kigali’s development.

“We must be leaders who understand our goals. Our city must grow sustainably. Rwanda is already known for quality service delivery, and most visitors experience this first-hand right here in Kigali,” said Dusengiyumva. “Let us work to uphold the vision set by His Excellency, the President of the Republic.”

Cracking Down on Illegal Construction

Mayor Dusengiyumva revealed that enforcement of urban planning laws is being prioritized, with a focus on tackling unlawful construction. Since July 2024, at least 222 illegally built houses have been demolished out of 1,425 identified across the three districts of Gasabo, Kicukiro, and Nyarugenge.

Out of 4,817 new houses constructed in that time, only 40% were built legally. Meanwhile, 30% were classified as illegal and 5% have already been removed. The mayor pointed to satellite imaging as a transformative tool now used to monitor construction in real time.

“Before, inspectors had to physically travel even to the furthest corners of Kigali. Now, satellite technology lets us see changes as they happen—from laying the first brick to roofing,” he noted.

Permitting and Green City Goals

Looking forward, Dusengiyumva announced planned reforms to streamline the construction permitting system, aiming to issue permits within 10 days by the end of 2026.

In addition, he reminded local leaders that starting in October 2025, undeveloped plots must be turned into gardens as part of Kigali’s urban greening initiative. “This is part of our commitment to making Kigali cleaner, greener, and more livable,” he said.

On transport, the mayor reiterated that beginning in 2026, only electric buses will be allowed to operate within city limits. He highlighted government efforts that already delivered 200 electric buses and noted their economic efficiency: “A diesel bus consumes up to RWF 180,000 a day, compared to just RWF 40,000 for an electric one.”

Strengthening Grassroots Leadership

Dr. Patrice Mugenzi, Rwanda’s Minister of Local Government, applauded the inclusive nature of the assembly and the involvement of grassroots leaders.

“When I see an assembly like this, where village leaders are present, I feel proud. This is leadership that is close to the people,” said Dr. Mugenzi.

He urged leaders to guide citizens in adhering to Kigali’s master plan and housing regulations. “It is heartbreaking to see a house demolished when better awareness from local authorities could have prevented it,” he said.

Dr. Mugenzi called on leaders to strengthen collaboration, prioritize sustainability, and focus on timely information-sharing with residents. “Better service starts with providing clear information. This is the first and most important role of leadership.”