The targeted intersections for this upgrade are Gishushu, Chez Lando, and Sonatube.
In addition to the intersection upgrades, a joint Rwanda-Burundi development project, known as BRIDEP, has also commenced. This project will focus on building major roads to enhance connectivity between the two countries.
The total cost of these projects is estimated at $360 million, equivalent to over 514 billion Rwandan Francs. The upgrade of the intersections alone will require an investment of $100 million, or more than 142 billion Rwandan Francs.
Funding for these initiatives comes from a loan provided by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan, with repayment scheduled over 25 years.
As part of the Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project (KUTI), the upgrades aim to enhance the city's transportation system, ease traffic flow and improve overall mobility.
At the Chez Lando intersection, a new road will be constructed beneath the existing one, allowing vehicles travelling from Gishushu to Kigali International Airport at Kanombe to pass under the current road. The existing road will remain for use by other vehicles. Vehicles coming from the gravel road towards Amahoro Stadium will travel above the new road, helping to alleviate congestion at this busy intersection.
At the Gishushu intersection, a flyover bridge will be built starting from the Simba Supermarket area. This flyover will cater to regular vehicles, while buses will use a separate route beneath the bridge. The bridge is expected to be at least 500 meters long.
Meanwhile, the Sonatube intersection will feature an underground tunnel, running from the Ministry of Health building to the site of the former University of Tourism, Technology, and Business (UTB). This tunnel will span 620 meters.
On December 4, 2024, the AfDB approved a $100 million loan to support the Rwandan government's efforts to improve public transport in Kigali. The RTDA indicates that the project is slated for completion within five years from the approval of the loan.
Gihoza Mivugo François, RTDA's Project Implementation Manager, emphasized that the upgrade will significantly ease traffic congestion in Kigali, especially during peak hours.
He said, 'These intersections are notorious for heavy congestion, particularly in the mornings, evenings, and sometimes even at noon. It's a major issue when commuters are stuck in traffic for an hour. This project will help resolve this problem and improve the daily commute for many people.'
As for BRIDEP, Mivugo highlighted that the project will also include the construction of new roads to enhance trade connectivity within Rwanda, covering a total of 215 kilometers. This includes the renovation of the Ngororero-Musanze-Cyanika road, the Bugarama-Bweyeye road, and the much-needed upgrade of the road from Ngororero to Rutsiro, which has deteriorated significantly and hindered trade.
Other key infrastructure projects under BRIDEP include the construction of a port at Kirambo in Nyamasheke, and enhanced monitoring of transportation routes on Lake Kivu to prevent accidents. Additionally, studies will be conducted on water conservation initiatives for Rwanda's rivers, aimed at ensuring sustainable resource usage.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Abimana Fidele, noted that BRIDEP will play a pivotal role in improving regional connectivity with neighbouring countries like Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda.
'This will be particularly important for areas lacking paved roads, such as the Cyanika-Musanze-Ngororero route. This road, along with other critical infrastructure, will better connect Ngororero, Nyabihu, Musanze, and Burera districts. The Bugarama-Bweyeye road will also improve cross-border trade with Burundi,' he explained.
Aissa Touré, the AfDB Country Director for Rwanda, praised the project, noting that it will not only improve transportation but also contribute to economic growth and job creation.
"These projects will have a lasting positive impact on the region, boosting trade and creating new economic opportunities," she said.
The proposed road plans for Kigali reveal significant upgrades to the intersections at Chez Lando, Gishushu, and Sonatube. These upgrades will include dedicated lanes for buses, cyclists, pedestrians, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive and efficient transportation network for the city.
IGIHE
