Rwanda to build 892 new housing units in Kigali worth $48 million

The skyline of Kigali is rapidly transforming as construction accelerates across the city, with roads, buildings, and public infrastructure developing at a fast pace. The government announced plans to build 892 new housing units in the Kicukiro District, with a total value of $48 million (over 70 billion Rwandan francs).

Deputy government spokesperson Maurice Uwera said the homes will be built on 12.8 hectares in Gahanga Sector, Kicukiro, in partnership with construction company Bauhaus International Ltd. “This project will benefit 121 residents whose land will be affected, providing compensation or replacement housing,” Uwera said.

The project is part of a nationwide plan to develop 1,100 hectares for affordable housing, including 890 hectares in Kigali, to address growing demand. Investors are encouraged through support such as access to infrastructure, a reduced 15% tax rate, assistance with land acquisition, and local sourcing of construction materials.

A 2019 study showed that Kigali needs 310,000 housing units to accommodate 373,000 households between 2017 and 2032. Rwanda aims to build at least 150,000 units to meet its goal of housing 5.5 million people by 2050.

Globally, an estimated 300 million new housing units are needed by 2030 to close the housing gap, particularly in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia — representing a market worth $17 trillion.

Officials say the Kigali project is expected to improve urban living conditions while continuing the city’s rapid development and modernization.