Rwanda has inaugurated 151 kilometers of new paved roads across different regions, marking a major milestone in efforts to modernize infrastructure and strengthen economic connectivity.
The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, in Rukomo Trading Center, Gicumbi District. It was presided over by Ambassador Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, Minister of State for Infrastructure (MININFRA), who said the new roads are expected to enhance mobility and stimulate trade.
The completed roads include the Huye–Kitabi, Rubengera–Gisiza, and Rulindo–Gicumbi–Nyagatare routes. Together, they link Rwanda’s central, southern, and western regions, reducing travel time and improving access to essential services such as schools, hospitals, and markets.
According to the Ministry, the projects created 2,475 jobs during construction and will directly benefit more than three million people in Nyagatare, Karongi, Gisagara, Huye, and Nyamagabe districts. The 151 kilometers of paved roads comprise 73 kilometers on Nyagatare–Rukomo, 53 kilometers on Huye–Kitabi, and 25 kilometers on Rubengera–Gisiza.
“These projects demonstrate our commitment to building modern, inclusive transport systems that connect people to opportunities and drive economic growth,” said Imena Munyampenda, Director General of the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA).
He noted that the works were implemented in partnership with the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).
Residents say the new roads have already improved travel and trade. “Before the construction, this road was full of potholes and often dangerous during the rainy season. Now it’s much safer and easier to transport goods,” said a trader from Rukomo.
The projects align with Vision 2050 and the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which emphasize improved infrastructure and economic integration. Built with climate resilience in mind, the roads include drainage systems and slope protection to prevent erosion and flooding.
Other works under the same initiative include the ongoing 18.5-kilometer Nyagatare–Rwempasha road, and the completed Huye–Gisagara and Nyamagabe–Murambi sections. The Rubengera–Gisiza section of the Kivu Belt road also received new street lighting for improved safety.
The new road network is expected to boost cross-border trade with Uganda, Burundi, and the DRC, supporting Rwanda’s long-term vision of inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
