A report of the Ministry of Local Government ( MINALOC, 2023 )¹ identified 14 potentialities the City of Kigali is facing namely: (1) There are economic opportunities in the sector because of the big market potential for food items in the city of Kigali; (2) Promotion of high yielding crop/animal varieties and techniques to improve the earning from subsistence agriculture; (3) Promote domestic tourism; and promote the conservation of heritage sites around the city of Kigali; (4) Promote creation of SMEs; (5) Youth committed and ready to work for the National interest (33% of the total population are 16 - 30 years old); (6) Socio-economic development created from improving transport; (7) Construction of the centralized sewage system and solid waste management system; (8) The City is provided with many growth opportunities in terms of available undeveloped land, and low-density areas with potential to be redeveloped; (9) The expansion of the National carrier (RwandAir) to many destinations has also opened up a new window of investment and tourism in Kigali; (10) Demarcation of green spaces and Beautification of parks and sides of the roads; (11) Potential investors in Health; (12) Availability of health insurance schemes; good health policies; (13) Availability of libraries to promote the culture of reading and writing; (14) Good government policies and program for sport and culture promotion.

Comprehensive Development Strategies (CDS) serve as an essential tool for urban planning, addressing rapid urbanization, and fostering sustainable growth. The framework of a CDS is built upon holistic integration of economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Globally, successful examples of such strategies emphasize inclusive urbanization, economic diversification, and environmental resilience. As noted by the World Bank (2020) , “cities that adopt comprehensive and integrated planning frameworks are better positioned to address 21st-century challenges.” For Kigali City, a CDS provides an opportunity to address unique challenges such as population growth, urban sprawl, and socio-economic inequalities while leveraging its potential as a regional economic hub.

Urban agriculture is increasingly recognized as a critical component of sustainable urban development. Studies by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlight its role in enhancing food security, reducing urban poverty, and promoting environmental sustainability. According to Mougeot (2006) , “urban agriculture not only addresses food insecurity but also strengthens community resilience and environmental sustainability in cities.” Cities like Singapore and Havana have effectively integrated urban agriculture into their planning frameworks, demonstrating its potential to improve urban resilience. For Kigali, urban agriculture aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 goals by offering opportunities to address food insecurity and unemployment, particularly for low-income communities. The literature underscores the need for policy incentives, capacity-building programs, and urban land-use planning to mainstream urban agriculture into Kigali’s development strategy.

Cultural diversification is a cornerstone of creating vibrant and inclusive cities. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO, 2016 ) emphasizes that cultural hubs drive tourism, preserve heritage, and foster social cohesion. Florida (2002) argues that “creative cities that invest in cultural assets and diversity attract talent and fuel economic growth.” African cities like Dakar and Cape Town have utilized cultural diversification to boost their creative economies and attract international tourism. Kigali’s rich cultural heritage and growing arts scene present an opportunity to position the city as a regional cultural destination. Literature suggests that investment in infrastructure, public-private partnerships, and digital platforms can amplify the reach and impact of cultural centers in Kigali.

The hospitality and tourism sectors are vital for Kigali’s economic development. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council ( WTTC, 2023 ), tourism contributes significantly to GDP and employment in developing economies. Rwanda’s existing ecotourism framework centered on attractions like Volcanoes National Park and Nyungwe Forest has positioned the country as a global leader in sustainable tourism. Honey and Krantz (2007) emphasize that “ecotourism not only supports conservation but also provides economic benefits to local communities.” However, expanding hospitality services in Kigali requires addressing gaps in service quality, infrastructure, and accessibility. Literature points to the importance of workforce training, branding strategies, and policy reforms to enhance the city’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

Inclusive urbanization ensures that all residents, regardless of socio-economic status, benefit from urban growth. Green urbanization, on the other hand, focuses on minimizing environmental impact. The World Bank (2019) and UN-Habitat (2020) advocate for integrated approaches combining these principles to create sustainable cities. Kigali’s progress in green urbanization evidenced by initiatives such as car-free zones and green buildings provides a strong foundation. Nonetheless, challenges remain in affordable housing, public transport, and waste management. Best practices from cities like Curitiba and Copenhagen highlight the need for participatory planning, innovative financing mechanisms, and enforcement of environmental regulations to achieve inclusive and green urbanization.

Access to finance is critical for fostering resilience and recovery, especially in the context of economic shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank (2021) report stated that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) often face barriers to accessing credit, hindering their potential to contribute to economic recovery. Demirgüç-Kunt et al. (2018) argue that “financial inclusion drives economic growth and reduces income inequality by enabling access to credit and financial services.” For Kigali, enhancing financial inclusion can drive entrepreneurship and innovation. Literature highlights the effectiveness of microfinance institutions, digital banking platforms, and government-backed credit schemes in expanding access to finance. Additionally, integrating financial literacy programs into community development initiatives can enhance the long-term impact.

Digital technologies are transforming urban governance and service delivery. Kigali’s Smart City initiative showcases the potential of ICT in improving mobility, e-governance, and public safety. However, disparities in digital literacy and internet access persist. Research underscores the importance of addressing the digital divide through affordable internet, capacity-building programs, and inclusive technology design. As Castells (1996) notes, “The digital divide is not just about access to technology but also about the ability to use it effectively to participate in the network society.” As part of its vision to become a smart city, Kigali will continue to embrace ICT adoption across all sectors. The development strategy to include plans to enhance digital infrastructure, expand internet connectivity, and promote e-governance. Smart city initiatives, such as intelligent traffic management systems and digital public services, will improve operational efficiency and citizen engagement. By leveraging technology, Kigali aims to enhance urban mobility, increase access to information, and drive innovation.

The same, Priority Area 14: Foster digital transformation across key economic sectors: For Rwanda to achieve a digitally advanced society and economy, it is essential to develop a skilled workforce and create a conducive environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship. By investing in digital literacy and skills training, the ICT sector aims to empower citizens to actively and effectively participate in the digital economy. A skilled workforce, supported by a thriving innovative ecosystem, is envisaged to not only unlock new economic opportunities, but also boost productivity, and increase tech exports. Prominently under this priority, the ICT sector aims to achieve universal digital literacy, train 1.5 million citizens in ICT skills, and create over 50,000 digital jobs. The contribution of the City of Kigali in achieving the national target is the training of 546,519 citizens during the next five years. The Outcome 14.1.: Increased digital literacy and digital skills development for a globally competitive workforce: The City of Kigali recognizes ICT prevailing issues including limited access to training and a low digital literacy rate, especially among adults. To resolve these challenges, the CoK aims to empower citizens to actively and effectively participate in the digital economy to unlock new economic opportunities, boost productivity, and increase tech exports. To achieve this target, over the next five years, the CoK aims to achieve universal digital literacy by attaining cumulatively 546,519 citizens trained in ICT skills. Finally, this paper proposes “Priority Key Strategic Interventions” to include not limited to 1) Train citizens in basic coding and advanced ICT skills and 2) universal basic digital literacy.

While existing literature provides valuable insights, several knowledge gaps remain. These include the long-term socio-economic impacts of urban agriculture, the scalability of green urbanization initiatives, and the effectiveness of financial inclusion programs. Further research is needed to explore innovative financing models, community-led urban development strategies, and the consideration of citizen participation into urban planning. Collaborative efforts between academia, government, and civil society can bridge these gaps and inform Kigali’s City Development strategy implementation.

This document highlights the importance of a multi-dimensional approach to urban development, integrating economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. For Kigali City, the Development strategy framework offers a roadmap to harness its potential while addressing urban challenges. By drawing on global best practices and adapting them to local contexts, Kigali can position itself as a model for sustainable and inclusive urbanization in Africa. Through its holistic Kigali city Master plan to guide Kigali city planners in their plans to accommodate a population of 3.8 million residents and provide 1.8 million jobs by 2050 ( CoK, 2024 ).

A report of Kigali City Action Plan (2024) contributed in City of Kigali (CoK) revision of its Vision: Kigali Yacu—Our Kigali²! ( Liliane Uwanziga Mupende, 2024 ). To become “A world class centre of urban excellence as an inclusive and resilient city with a vibrant, liveable, and green economy” with a long-term Mission: Build and sustain a city of character, vibrant economy, and diversity through strong partnerships with stakeholders to provide responsive, rapid and effective urban development. With its KCAP, the city Should capture the city’s overarching development ambition over the next 10 - 15 years. City of Kigali designed horizon based on existing main CoK strategy and plans, as well national strategies. The CoK has added details on the aspirations of the City of Kigali in next development projections. By strengthening the concept of sustainability by adding a specific pillar: Sustainable Transformation-Splitting Infrastructure and Economic Pillars to provide sector-wise objectives which will clearly be related to Actions; Elaborate on the Transformative Governance Pillar to be more specific and related to an Urban Action Plan. Adding some concepts raised during the City Action Plan process to promote inclusiveness and gender equality ( City of Kigali, 2024 ).

The study was guided by the following research questions:

1) Economic Development: What are the key factors influencing economic growth in each CoK district?

2) Sectoral Impact: How do policies in different sectors affect service delivery and performance within CoK districts?

3) Infrastructure and Quality of Life: What is the relationship between infrastructure availability and the quality of life in various CoK districts?

This study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative analysis was to assess measurable indicators of economic performance, sectoral efficiency, and infrastructure quality. Qualitative methods, including interviews and focus groups, provided deeper insights into policy impacts and resident experiences.

To ensure a statistically valid and representative sample for CDS Study, we employed Slovin’s formula, a probabilistic approach commonly used when estimating sample sizes from large populations. The target population consists of respondents drawn from both rural and urban sectors across the three districts of Kigali City: Kicukiro, Gasabo, and Nyarugenge. The sample for this study employed Slovin’s formula, a probabilistic approach commonly used when estimating sample sizes from large populations. The target population consists of respondents drawn from both rural and urban sectors across the three districts of Kigali City: Kicukiro, Gasabo, and Nyarugenge as described in Table 1 .

National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda³ (NISR), 2022.

The Cochran’s formula has been used to determine an ideal sample size as the population given above is large and we wanted to estimate proportions with a certain level of confidence and precision.

$n_0=\frac{Z^2\cdot p\cdot \left(1-p\right)}{e^2}$

where:

Based on official findings from the recent publications from NISR, the estimated total target population (n₀) from which respondents will be drawn consists of 480 individuals across the three districts. Thus, a sample size of 430 respondents is required to achieve a 95% confidence level with a 5% margin of error.

Using the above formula the sample size is calculated below:

$n_0=\frac{{\left(1.96\right)}^2\cdot 0.5\cdot \left(1-0.5\right)}{{\left(0.05\right)}^2}$ = 384.16 for our study, we used 430 respondents.

The sample size distribution is presented in Table 2 .

NISR, 2022 .

Each district’s sample was further broken down into urban and rural sectors according to population distribution: Given Cochran’s calculations, the study has adopted a sample size of approximately 430 respondents. The sample has been proportionally allocated across the three districts and further categorized into urban and rural sectors. Stratified random sampling has been applied to ensure representation from both urban and rural sectors while choosing every Kth respondent from the Household in the provided range of area.

Quantitative Data: Surveys and official records from governmental and sector-specific databases. Qualitative Data: Quantitative Survey, Semi-structured interviews of key Informants and focus groups with key stakeholders, including policymakers, sector managers, and residents.

As per William G. Cochran (“Sampling Techniques”), a random sampling of cells and villages is adopted in cascading as a multi-stage sampling technique designed to enhance the representativeness of the study’s population parameter. Here’s a brief description of its application which has helped us carry out this extensive field task:

A. First stage: Selection of cells

The cells within Kigali City were stratified based on relevant criteria such as geographic location, population density, or socio-economic characteristics. A random sampling method was used to select a representative subset of cells to ensure diverse coverage.

B. Second stage: Selection of villages

Within each selected cell, villages were identified as sub-units for further sampling. A similar random sampling process was applied, selecting villages to reflect the diversity within each cell.

C. Final stage: Selection of respondents

From the chosen villages, respondents were selected using systematic random sampling. Every household or individual was selected from a pre-determined sampling frame, where k was meant to be calculated as the total population of the sampling frame divided by the desired sample size. This systematic approach has revealed to be handy and successfully minimize bias and ensure proportional representation across all strata.

Quantitative Analysis: Here inference of causality patterns has been drawn to proceed with Statistical techniques such as regression analysis, ANOVA, and factor analysis to test hypotheses related to the research questions. Qualitative Analysis: Thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and insights from interviews and focus groups.

Throughout the whole process of this study’s data collection, the following ethical considerations were scrupulously respected to avoid common research misconduct: Ensure informed consent from all participants and achieve full compliance to standards of CoK & NISR study protocols. Maintain confidentiality and anonymity of respondents. Secure data storage and handle all information in compliance with ethical guidelines. When selecting rural and urban sectors within a wide range of districts’ sectors for this study, criteria were mainly based on specific objectives and contexts typically considered as follows:

A. DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS: High population density for urban sectors; lower density for rural sectors. Furthermore, sectors experiencing rapid growth may be prioritized for urban studies or interventions. Additional population structures like the average household size, household types, and dependency ratios have been also considered. This varies from dominant industries or livelihoods, such as agriculture in rural areas or services in urban sectors. We notice that Sectors experience varying levels of income and poverty to capture disparities. Basically, Urban sectors often have diverse job markets; rural sectors may rely on subsistence farming.

B. ACCESS TO INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES: Representative counts have been purposively taken in normal distribution by Presence of roads, public transport systems, and accessibility to nearby commercial centers, basic services like Availability of water, sanitation, electricity, healthcare, and education facilities. Digital connectivity like Internet and ICT access, critical for urban and semi-urban sectors. Factors like Proximity to urban centers are also critical for Sectors close to urban areas may exhibit peri-urban characteristics. For instance, urban sectors prioritize areas with higher economic activity, infrastructure development, and challenges like congestion or housing shortages. As opposed to rural sectors whose main concerns are agricultural potential, rural poverty, and connectivity challenges. By using these criteria, decision-makers can ensure that selected sectors represent diverse conditions and provide insights into both challenges and opportunities across rural and urban areas.

Key informants were sampled randomly by selecting at least four respondents from each line ministry, and were targeted from community level authorities, public institutions, FBOs and/or private sectors. A total of 12 key informants were reached for this research.

This study undertaking has strived to reach normally distributed number of respondents by gender across all Districts of the City and key informants with disability inclusion lenses, since this is one of key drivers that will guide the next five years development priorities for championing the criteria of ensuring that none is left behind within our sustainable city development interventions. In nutshell, the data collection was conducted from 394 respondents to quantitative survey questionnaires, 10 sets of FGDs and 12 Key Informant Interview sessions.

The elaboration of this Report has employed MS Forms, Kobo collect, Pictochart, Microsoft Excel Sheet and SPSS_25 to collect & analyze quantitative data from the field survey and secondary data gathering. Content analysis was used to analyze all qualitative data from FGDs and key informant interviews. A group of around 20 data enumerators and established leadership i.e., team supervisors among enumerators have been deployed for a couple of weeks and have greatly contributed to prompt smart report submissions, therefore availing an integrated database to serve as a basis for more cleaning and validation exercises for improved data quality data assurance. Kobo toolbox was used throughout the data collection, which contributed to minimizing any errors and increasing accuracy of data collection. Finally, the researcher has initiated a social media platform which enabled key role players to coordinate data collection and provide timely support to enumerators when required.

While conducting this Development Strategy Assessment, and right from convening about its inception, some limitations were encountered. The main limitation was the very scope of the assignment which has been revealed to be very wide and multi-dimensional in nature, time constraints and budget which has led to reconsidering the years it has to be covering. This resulted in the fact that our elaboration of strategies has always been subject to emerging issues for constant need to be reflected with high risk of keeping several versions with unforeseen editing. This research has also faced issues of conflicting appointments of urban citizens who happen to be always busy rushing for their business commitments, which affected the participation of the respondents especially in trade areas. However, it is noteworthy to underline the fact that alternative solutions to these limitations have been discussed and agreed upon. All limitations have been systematically recorded and their remedial actions were conveniently documented to serve as important lessons learned in further research works moving forwards.

The key respondents’ profile in this section includes occupation & geographical locations, characteristics of respondents assessed such as sex, education, age, marital status, disability and households’ size and categories.

Gender Distribution: 49% Male: Nearly half of the respondents in the assessment were male, showing a balanced representation of genders. 48% Female/Female respondents account for a nearly equal proportion, ensuring gender inclusivity in the field data collection. This near-equal split suggests that the data is not skewed by gender and reflects diverse perspectives, which is an ideal situation for inclusive ownership of City Development Strategy findings.

Education Level: 27% Secondary Level: The largest group of respondents had completed secondary education, indicating a moderate level of education among the population. 17% O’Level: A significant proportion had basic secondary education, reflecting a transitional stage of educational attainment. 17% Tertiary: A notable share of respondents had tertiary education, highlighting advanced educational opportunities for some groups. 16% Primary: A substantial portion had completed primary education, showing foundational literacy levels. 7% None: A small percentage of the population had no formal education, pointing to educational accessibility challenges.

6% Pre-Primary or Lower Primary: A smaller group had minimal schooling, reflecting a prevailing early-stage education challenge. 5% Vocational Training: This implies that a small yet important segment received skills-oriented education. 2% Post-Tertiary: This showing that by a tiny proportion, an elite group attained higher levels of education, indicating a big gap in advanced learning pathways. These findings highlight normally distributed but varied educational attainment levels and provide CoK insights into capacity-building and literacy needs.

Age Group Distribution: 1) 32% Aged 25 - 34: This group constitutes the largest share of respondents, reflecting a youthful and economically active demographic. 2) 21% Aged 18 - 24: A significant portion falls within the younger working-age group, showcasing Kigali’s potential for workforce growth. 3) 20% Aged 35 - 44: This group forms a stable mid-career demographic, contributing to economic productivity. 4) 14% Aged 45 - 54: A smaller but vital segment in the later stages of their careers. 5) 11% Aged 55+: This smallest proportion represents an elder age range of respondents, highlighting a relatively youthful population structure. These CDS results indicate a predominantly young population with implications for high level dynamism forecasted in employment, urban planning, and service provision.

Occupation of Respondents: In the context of Kigali’s development strategy research, the survey highlights the varied roles that individuals occupy within the community, reflecting a blend of economic engagement and social responsibilities. 1) Trader or Business Owner (25%): The largest segment of respondents identified as traders or business owners. This indicates a robust entrepreneurial culture in Kigali, showcasing the significance of commerce and trade to the city’s economy. These individuals play a crucial role in driving economic activity, providing goods and services, and contributing to job creation. 2) Other (22%): A noteworthy portion of respondents categorized their roles as “other”, suggesting a variety of less-defined occupations or contributions that may not fit neatly into conventional categories but are still essential to community dynamics. 3) Farming (8%): Although urbanized, farming remains a vital occupation for some residents. This percentage reflects the importance of agriculture in sustaining local food supplies and supporting livelihoods within and around the city. 4) Parent or Caregiver (6%): This role underscores the social fabric of the community, emphasizing the importance of familial responsibilities and caregiving in the dynamics of community life. Caregivers are pivotal in nurturing the next generation and maintaining household stability. 5) NGO Representative (6%): The involvement of non-governmental organizations indicates a commitment to community service and development initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and addressing social issues. These representatives often act as a bridge between the community and external support. 6) Government Official (4%): A small but significant number of individuals serve as government officials, which is crucial for governance and the implementation of community-focused policies and initiatives. 7) Community Leader (3%): Leaders within the community play an essential role in guiding local initiatives, promoting civic engagement, and fostering social cohesion among residents. 8) Investor or Entrepreneur (3%): This group expresses the growing trend of investment in Kigali, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to economic development and innovation within the community. 9) Students (5%) and Other (11%): Together, these categories represent the future of Kigali’s workforce and the contributions of those not explicitly defined in other categories. Students are essential for educational growth, while the unspecified “other” category indicates a variety of roles contributing to the community’s diversity. This narrative highlights the multifaceted nature of community roles in Kigali, emphasizing the collective effort in economic development, social responsibility, and governance that drives the city’s growth and sustainability.

These findings from the Kigali City development research highlight important community priorities regarding infrastructure development, reflecting a collective vision for enhancing living conditions and promoting sustainable growth. CoK citizens’ development priorities & preferences were found to be ranked as follows:

Highlight of Achievements in Transport Sector: 1) Construction of roads: New roads were built, improving movement and traffic flow across the city. 2) Bus waiting times: Reduced from 30 minutes to 15 minutes, significantly improving the commuting experience. 3) Passenger shelters: Shelters were built to make waiting for buses more comfortable, especially in bad weather. 4) Introduction of electric buses: Eco-friendly buses were introduced, contributing to a greener transport system. 5) Construction of footbridges: Enhanced safety for pedestrians, making it easier and safer to cross busy roads.

The findings from the Kigali City Development Survey indicate key priorities and challenges that aim to shape the city’s future to address Bus waiting times to include efficiency in transport, introducing improved bus scheduling, technological advancement and integrated payment systems coupled with better route planning, enhanced traffic management, urban planning guided by promoting policies in sustainable transport, subsidies and policy initiatives as well ( Figure 1 ).

Access to Affordable Housing (37%) tops the list as the most critical social issue. This highlights the urgent need for affordable housing solutions amidst urbanization. Healthcare Services (17%), Education and Training (15%), Crime and Safety (14%), and Social Inclusion (12%) follow. These figures indicate a multi-faceted approach is essential in tackling social disparities to create a more equitable urban setting. Implication: The focus on affordable housing suggests that any urban development strategy must prioritize this aspect to provide a sustainable living environment. This aligns with research questions aimed at identifying urban challenges and potential solutions.

Lack of Internet Access (28%) and Limited Digital Literacy (25%) are the main barriers, suggesting that the shift toward digital governance poses challenges for residents, especially in accessing city services. Other concerns include data privacy (14%) and a preference for in-person services (10%). Implication: Addressing digital literacy and internet access through decentralization of IREMBO services for instance is expected to keep accelerating this trend and be vital for promoting inclusivity in urban services, aligning with research questions concerning access to information and technology in urban settings.

Smart Traffic Management (19%) and Digital Public Services (18%) are the most favoured initiatives. This indicates a clear interest in enhancing urban mobility and service delivery through technology. Implication: Investment in smart technologies can significantly improve urban infrastructure and efficiency, which resonates with research questions about technological integration in urban planning.

Public Participation (29%) and Efficiency in Service Delivery (25%) are identified as major governance challenges. This highlights the need for citizen engagement and effective management in urban governance. Implication: Enhancing transparency and public involvement will foster trust and collaboration, which are pivotal for effective governance, directly linking to research questions on governance efficacy.

Air Pollution (22%) is the primary concern, with Water Pollution (14%) and Waste Management (19%) also highlighted. These findings stress the urgency of addressing environmental sustainability in urban strategies. Implication: A pressing focus on environmental issues shows the necessity for sustainable practices and policies, corresponding to research questions about environmental sustainability and urban development.

The previous findings from the Kigali City Development Strategy include: 1) Economic Growth Prioritization (51%): Residents emphasize that economic growth will underpin all other aspects of urban development. This echoes the concern for affordable housing and effective governance, suggesting that economic strategies must be linked to social and environmental policies. 2) Sectoral Priorities for Development: Identifying technology and manufacturing as crucial sectors aligns with the need for digital services and smart city initiatives. It suggests that prioritizing these sectors can stimulate economic development while enhancing digital engagement. 3) Road Infrastructure Evaluation: High satisfaction regarding road improvements connects with public feedback on smart traffic systems, reinforcing the idea that efficient transportation networks are critical for economic and urban development.

A majority of respondents (51%) believe that economic growth and job creation are the foundational elements upon which all other urban development efforts should rely.

The alignment of these findings with overarching research questions reveals several implications for urban development strategies: 1) Holistic Development Approach: Strategies should address socio-economic disparities, technological barriers, and environmental challenges. This creates a framework for integrated urban planning. 2) Public Participation and Inclusivity: Enhancing citizen engagement in decision-making fosters transparency and accountability, ensuring that urban development reflects the community’s needs. 3) Investment in Technology and Infrastructure: Prioritizing smart initiatives, digital literacy, and infrastructure will support economic growth, improve service delivery, and advance environmental sustainability. In conclusion, these findings point toward a comprehensive framework for Kigali’s Urban Development Strategy 2024-2029, underscoring the critical need for an integrated approach that balances economic growth, social equity, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability. This collective insight can inform policy decisions and future research avenues in urban development.

The citizens proportions emphasize a diverse economic landscape, with technology and manufacturing as prioritized sectors for growth. The outlined sectoral priorities reflect a strategic approach to economic development, balancing innovation with traditional industries.

By focusing on these key areas, stakeholders can work towards a more diversified and resilient economy that meets the needs of CoK population while fostering sustainable growth ( Figure 2 ). Technological Transformation was adopted with 26% of citizens respondents followed by manufacturing and Trade with 24%, urban agriculture 16%, tourism and Hospitality as well as service delivery 15%. Urban and rural settlements was preferred at 14% while good governance, unity and resilience was selected by 13% as CoK Sectoral contributions to the economic growth in Rwanda.

Despite of huge achievements in environmental management, like other cities in the region the CoK face Biodiversity degradation due to waste water and storm water management, Water pollution, Air pollution as well as climate change impacts, waste management and deforestation. The findings revealed that further environmental management best practices are required to sustain the socio-economic development and add value to the CoK development pillars ( Figure 3 ).

Air pollution is the primary environmental concern, reflecting the need for targeted policy interventions in urban clean air initiatives ( Figure 4 ).

The substantial 37% focusing on housing indicates a serious challenge for urban planners in ensuring accessible living conditions ( Figure 5 ). Access to affordable housing stands out as the most significant concern for the residents of Kigali, with 37% identifying it as a top issue. The rapid urbanization and population growth in the city have exacerbated the housing crisis, making it increasingly difficult for many to find suitable and affordable living conditions. The CDS data highlights the percentage of concern among residents for each issue, providing insight into the priorities and challenges faced by the population. Understanding these perceptions is crucial for CoK policymakers, stakeholders, and community leaders to address the needs of our urban citizens effectively.

This study employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative analysis was to assess measurable indicators of economic performance, sectoral efficiency, and infrastructure quality. Qualitative methods, including interviews and focus groups, provided deeper insights into policy impacts and resident experiences.

A significant portion of the population, 28% face challenges due to inadequate internet connectivity coupled with the high cost of internet. Approximately 25% of individuals report limited digital literacy as a barrier. Data privacy concerns affect 14% of the population, leading to hesitance in using digital services. Some individuals, accounting for 10%, prefer in-person services over digital alternatives ( Figure 6 ). This preference may be rooted in comfort with traditional methods, a desire for personal interaction, or scepticism about the reliability of digital services. Finally, a notable 19% of the population lacks awareness of the digital services available to them. This gap in knowledge can prevent individuals from seeking out and utilizing services that could benefit them, highlighting the need for improved outreach and education.

To overcome ICT barriers in CoK highlight the crucial need for digital access and literacy programs in facilitating better integration of digital services. Understanding these barriers is crucial for developing strategies to improve access to digital services. By addressing issues such as internet connectivity, digital literacy, data privacy, service preferences, and awareness, we can work towards creating a more inclusive digital environment for all CoK citizens ( Figure 7 ).

The inclination towards digital public services suggests that residents are looking for more accessible and efficient ways to interact with city governance. It can be explicitly demonstrated in their preference options as follow ( Figure 8 ):

A high satisfaction rate regarding green spaces indicates that urban development efforts may be successful in maintaining livable environments.

These findings can guide local authorities and urban planners in understanding community needs and keep enhancing the quality and accessibility of green spaces ( Figure 9 ).

The overwhelming majority of respondents, at 72%, believe that there has been some improvement in road infrastructure ( Figure 10 ). Additionally, 20% of citizens feel that the improvements have been significant. Only a small fraction of the population perceives no change (4%) or a significant decline (1%).

The CoK will continue developing valuable strategies as suggested by its citizens to come up with on CoK strategies best practices: urban agriculture and food security, diversification of cultural centers, promotion of hospitality services and ecotourism, inclusive and green urbanization, economic growth and key sectors, ICT adoption and smart city initiatives, social services: education, health, and community well-being, environmental sustainability and climate resilience, governance and stakeholder engagement. Following recommendations were formulated:

1) Urban agriculture and food security: Urban agriculture forms a cornerstone of Kigali’s development strategy, addressing food security while promoting efficient land use. The plan encourages the integration of agricultural activities within urban spaces to maximize the utilization of limited land resources. By adopting modern farming techniques and sustainable practices, the strategy aims to increase agricultural productivity, reduce dependency on food imports, and create employment opportunities. Furthermore, urban agriculture initiatives will contribute to Kigali’s resilience against supply chain disruptions and climate-related challenges.

2) Diversification of cultural centers: Recognizing the cultural richness of Kigali, the development strategy seeks to diversify and enhance cultural centers as hubs of creativity and economic activity. Investment in cultural infrastructure will support the growth of arts, music, and heritage industries, thereby fostering social cohesion and attracting tourism. The diversification of cultural offerings aligns with Kigali’s vision of becoming “a world class centre of urban excellence as an inclusive and resilient city with a vibrant, liveable, and green economy”.

3) Promotion of hospitality services and ecotourism: Kigali’s strategic location and natural beauty position as an ideal destination for ecotourism and hospitality. The development strategy outlines measures to improve infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and preserve the natural environment to attract more visitors. Key initiatives include the development of eco-friendly lodges, guided tours to protected areas, and community-based tourism programs. By leveraging its unique biodiversity and cultural heritage, Kigali aims to establish itself as a premier destination for sustainable tourism, which will significantly contribute to the local economy.

4) Inclusive and green urbanization: The strategy prioritizes inclusive and green urbanization as fundamental principles for Kigali’s development. To achieve this, the city will focus on affordable housing projects, integrated public transportation systems, and the expansion of green spaces. Emphasis will also be placed on modernizing urban planning to accommodate population growth while minimizing environmental impact. Affordable and sustainable housing initiatives aim to address the challenges of urban sprawl and improve living conditions for residents of all income levels. Concurrently, investments in renewable energy and waste management systems will ensure Kigali maintains its reputation as a clean and green city.

5) Economic growth and key sectors: Underpinning Strategy is a commitment to catalyzing economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship. Key sectors identified for development include technology, manufacturing, and services. The city aims to create an enabling environment for businesses by improving access to finance, streamlining regulatory processes, and investing in skills development programs. Special focus will be given to empowering youth and women entrepreneurs, thereby fostering inclusive economic participation. Kigali’s strategic investments in infrastructure, such as industrial parks and ICT hubs, will serve as catalysts for industrial growth and job creation.

6) ICT adoption and smart city initiatives: As part of its vision to become a smart city, Kigali will continue to embrace ICT adoption across all sectors. The development strategy includes plans to enhance digital infrastructure, expand internet connectivity, and promote e-governance. Smart city initiatives, such as intelligent traffic management systems and digital public services, will improve operational efficiency and citizen engagement. By leveraging technology, Kigali aims to enhance urban mobility, increase access to information, and drive innovation.

7) social services: education, health, and community well-being: The strategy underscores the importance of quality education and healthcare in improving overall well-being. Investments in modern educational facilities, teacher training programs, and digital learning tools will ensure equitable access to quality education for all residents. Similarly, the health sector will benefit from the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, the deployment of advanced medical technologies, and increased funding for preventive care initiatives. The strategy also emphasizes community development programs to strengthen social cohesion and foster a sense of belonging among residents.

8) Environmental sustainability and climate resilience: In response to the growing challenges posed by climate change, the strategy integrates environmental sustainability as a central theme. Kigali’s green initiatives include the promotion of renewable energy, efficient waste management, and reforestation programs. These measures aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance biodiversity, and improve air quality. Furthermore, the strategy incorporates climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events, ensuring the city’s long-term sustainability.

9) Governance and stakeholder engagement: Effective governance and stakeholder collaboration are critical to the success of the City Development Strategy 2024-2029. The strategy emphasizes transparency, accountability, and community participation in decision-making processes. By fostering partnerships with private sector actors, non-governmental organizations, and international development agencies, Kigali seeks to mobilize resources and expertise to achieve its development goals. citizen engagement initiatives will ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard, fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.