Urgent Need for Modern Bus Shelters Amid Rising Rainfall in Kigali

As rainfall continues to intensify in the City of Kigali and its surrounding areas, residents are calling on authorities to increase the number of public bus shelters and renovate existing ones, arguing that their shortage and poor condition are forcing commuters to seek refuge in unsafe locations.

In recent days, several parts of Kigali have seen people sheltering under bridges, beneath trees, or along roadside embankments when sudden downpours occur. This comes as security authorities continue to urge both pedestrians and motorists to avoid such risky behavior, warning that it could lead to accidents and other hazards.

Although bus shelters have been installed along some roads, residents say they are not sufficient. Others point out that some of the existing structures are not built to withstand heavy rains, with leaking roofs that allow water inside and leave commuters exposed.

Mukamana Chantal, who works in Kigali, says the issue requires urgent attention. “When it rains while we are waiting for a bus, there is often no shelter nearby. Even some of the available ones are poorly roofed, and rainwater gets in. That pushes people to take cover wherever they can, even when they know it may be dangerous,” she said.

Niyonzima Leonce  also argues that increasing the number of shelters and rehabilitating old ones would help reduce accidents linked to unsafe sheltering.“In some places, you find many people squeezed into a very small space. When it starts raining, some run under bridges or stand too close to the roadside. Authorities should build more modern and stronger shelters,” he said.

The spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police in the City of Kigali, CIP Wellars Gahonzire, reminded residents to avoid taking cover under trees, bridges, or in other high-risk areas, especially during heavy rains that may cause flooding or falling trees. “We urge residents to avoid actions that may put their lives at risk. Regarding the issue of bus shelters, we will advocate for it so that the relevant institutions can assess what should be done,” he said.

According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), more than five people lost their lives during previous rainy seasons due to rain-related disasters, which also destroyed houses and other infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Meteo Rwanda has indicated that rainfall expected in the coming period could exceed the normal seasonal average, underscoring the need for heightened caution and preventive measures.

Residents believe that increasing and upgrading bus shelters would not only protect commuters from harsh weather but also help ensure compliance with safety guidelines issued by authorities. As the rains continue to intensify, many are waiting to see whether the promised advocacy will translate into concrete action to improve commuter infrastructure across Kigali’s roads.