Rwanda’s Road Upgrading Projects Enhance Connectivity and Economic Growth
Rwanda is making significant strides in improving its infrastructure by implementing a series of road upgrading projects. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing movement, connectivity, and trade among districts in rural areas. The focus on these roads is not only about improving transportation but also about unlocking economic potential and fostering regional development.
Base–Butaro–Kidaho Road
The Base–Butaro–Kidaho road, spanning 63 kilometers, is currently 54% complete. This critical route connects Rulindo and Burera districts in the Northern Province. Once completed, it is expected to significantly improve mobility and economic exchange between the two areas. The road will also support tourism around Lakes Ruhondo and Burera, promoting eco-tourism and local investment. Additionally, it will provide better access to essential facilities such as Butaro District Hospital and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE).
Nyacyonga–Mukoto Road
The rehabilitation of the 36-kilometer Nyacyonga–Mukoto road has reached 38.56% completion. This project, funded by the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), involves paving the entire road with asphalt to enhance durability. The project is expected to ease travel and facilitate trade between the Northern Province and Kigali. The financing agreement includes a 1.75% interest rate over 20 years, with a five-year grace period. The total project cost is estimated at $41 million.
Kibugabuga–Shinga–Gasoro Road
This 66.5-kilometer road is nearing completion, with finalization expected in 2025. It marks a milestone as one of the first asphalt main roads directly linking Rwanda’s Eastern and Southern provinces. Once operational, it is expected to improve mobility, enhance trade, and accelerate socio-economic development for communities along the route. The road will also improve connectivity between Bugesera and other districts, creating a direct route that reduces travel time and transport costs.
Pindura–Bweyeye Road Project
The 32-kilometer Pindura–Bweyeye road upgrade project has been completed. This road connects the rural areas of Pindura to Bweyeye Sector, running through Nyungwe National Park and ending at the Ruhwa River. The upgrade has transformed it into a vital link for the Bweyeye community, enabling easier access to markets, schools, and health facilities.
Huye–Kitabi Road
The 53-kilometer Huye–Kitabi road connects the Southern and Western regions, passing through Nyamagabe District and Nyungwe Forest. It enhances regional connectivity and promotes tourism by providing access to one of Rwanda’s most treasured natural landmarks. The road also supports tea producers by enabling faster transport to markets.
Rubengera–Gisiza Road
The 25-kilometer Rubengera–Gisiza road strengthens agricultural logistics along Lake Kivu and promotes regional trade. It is part of 151 kilometers of upgraded roads inaugurated in October.
Nyagatare–Rukomo Road
The 73-kilometer Nyagatare–Rukomo road, recently inaugurated in Eastern Province, enhances cross-border trade and supports the agro-industrial sector in the region.
Kibuye–Kiziba Road
The newly inaugurated 14.5-kilometer Kibuye–Kiziba road connects Karongi Town to Kiziba, Rwanda’s oldest refugee camp. This road has been long awaited, especially by residents of Rwankuba Sector and the Kiziba camp community.
Nyaruguru Feeder Roads
RTDA has successfully completed 100% of construction work on a 70.78-kilometer network of feeder roads in Nyaruguru District. These roads enhance connectivity and facilitate trade, helping rural residents access markets, services, and economic opportunities more efficiently.
Upcoming 215 km Road Project
On March 24, 2025, the government launched a project to construct 215 kilometers of tarmac roads. These roads aim to improve internal connectivity and link Rwanda with neighboring countries, including Uganda, DR Congo, and Burundi. The projects include the Ngororero–Musanze–Cyanika road connecting to Uganda, the Bugarama–Bweyeye road in Rusizi District connecting to Burundi, and the Ngororero (Kazabwe)–Rutsiro road near DR Congo. Another planned road is the Kinigi–Kora road in Musanze and Nyabihu districts.