Kigali City mayor on building an inclusive city

The bustling capital city of Rwanda, Kigali, is on the brink of significant growth, with its population expected to double to around 4 million by 2050 from the current figure of less than 2 million. Mayor Pudence Rubingisa, who has been in office for almost a year, is determined to ensure that this growth is inclusive and that no one is left behind. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Mayor Rubingisa outlined his key priorities and strategies for achieving a more inclusive and sustainable future for the city. One of his top priorities since taking office has been to improve public transportation in Kigali. He acknowledged the challenges the city has been facing in this regard and emphasized the importance of building on the work of his predecessors to enhance the public transport system. In addition, Mayor Rubingisa highlighted the need to improve housing in the city, particularly in informal settlements and high-risk zones, to ensure that all residents have access to safe and decent shelter. He underscored the importance of aligning city development objectives with the needs and wishes of the people, as outlined in the government's seven-year plan and the city's strategic plan. Addressing concerns about the inclusivity of the city's growth, Mayor Rubingisa vehemently disagreed with the notion that disadvantaged individuals were being left behind. He explained that the city's master plan had been recently revised to make it more inclusive and that extensive consultations had been conducted to incorporate the views and ideas of Kigali residents. The revised master plan, which looks ahead to 2050, aims to ensure that everyone in Kigali has a place and a voice in the city's development. Mayor Rubingisa emphasized that ongoing efforts to upgrade informal settlements and involve residents in the development process were integral to creating a more inclusive city. The issue of affordable housing has long been a topic of discussion in Kigali, with many initiatives falling short of delivering truly affordable housing options. Mayor Rubingisa acknowledged the challenges but expressed optimism about the city's ambitious plans to address this issue. He cited the completion of housing market surveys and economic assessments as crucial steps in designing a strategy to provide affordable housing. The mayor highlighted the importance of phased implementation and collaboration between the government, private sector, and investors to gradually realize the goal of affordable housing for all residents. While recognizing the delays in implementation, Mayor Rubingisa reassured the public that the city's comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and demand, coupled with strategic partnerships, would eventually lead to the successful realization of affordable housing projects. In conclusion, Mayor Pudence Rubingisa's vision for Kigali is one of inclusivity, sustainability, and collaboration. By focusing on improving public transport, upgrading housing, and engaging residents in city planning, Mayor Rubingisa is laying the foundation for a vibrant and equitable future for the expanding city of Kigali.