Situated along two international borders with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rusizi enjoys the advantages of cross-border trade. To harness this potential, the government has established modern cross-border markets such as those in Bugarama and Rusizi, with investments exceeding 3.2 billion Rwandan francs. The city also benefits from a regional airport served by RwandAir, making travel and commerce even more accessible.
Walking through Rusizi, one quickly notices the rapid pace of development. Hotels, restaurants, and modern commercial buildings are sprouting up, signaling that tourism has become a cornerstone of the district's economy. The area's natural treasuresâ€"including Lake Kivu, Nkombo Island, and Nyungwe National Parkâ€"make it an attractive destination for both local and international tourists.
Rusizi is home to more than 400,000 residents, according to the 2022 census. Over 70 percent of them are under the age of 25, and more than 70 percent depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. Farming remains the backbone of the district, with key cash crops such as coffee and tea, supported by agro-processing industries. Livestock farming is also widespread, with nearly 60 percent of households engaged in animal husbandry.
This strong agricultural and trading base sustains a vibrant local economy. From fish and second-hand clothing to small-scale retail, commerce thrives in the heart of the city. As a secondary hub supporting Kigali, Rusizi continues to expand its infrastructure and industry. Over the next five years, 145 kilometers of new paved roads are expected to be built, linking urban and rural areas more efficiently.
Land prices in the city have been rising sharply, reflecting its growing economic value. A plot that sold for around 10 million francs in 2023 can now fetch nearly double. Investors are drawn by the district's unique opportunities, including Rwanda's largest modern abattoir, completed at a cost of more than 4 billion francs, which supplies both local and regional markets.
Industries are multiplying as well, adding to the well-known cement plant, Cimerwa. Small and medium-scale enterprises are particularly well-positioned to benefit from ongoing improvements in transport, especially shipping across Lake Kivu.
A transformative project currently underway is the construction of the Rusizi Port, designed to handle four boats simultaneouslyâ€"two for loading and two for unloading.
Once operational, the port will open new trade routes with other Western Province districts along Lake Kivu and strengthen links with the cities of Goma and Bukavu in eastern DRC. This will allow locally produced goods to reach markets faster and cheaper, boosting trade and attracting more investment.
Speaking to IGIHE, Rusizi District Mayor Phanuel Sindayiheba highlighted the region's immense potential.
'One of our greatest opportunities lies in cross-border trade. Lake Kivu connects us with other districts up to Rubavu. Water transport is unique because it allows us to carry large volumes of goods. Investment in water transport on Lake Kivu will significantly change the dynamics of trade and mobility,' he explained.
But Rusizi is more than just business and infrastructure. It is a community where people balance work with cultural and spiritual life.
By day, residents work hard to earn their livelihoods; by evening, they gather to pray, share meals, and celebrate the beauty of their homeland. With safe and well-maintained roads now connecting Rusizi more closely to the rest of Rwanda, the city feels closer than ever.
With its unique mix of natural beauty, booming commerce, and strategic location, Rusizi is positioning itself as a must-visit destination, and perhaps the perfect getaway for a weekend retreat.
IGIHE
