Good morning
@CityofKigali
Here is a big problem that we didn’t talk about during
#umushyikirano20 #Umushyikirano #Umushyikirano2026
Problem:
In dense neighborhoods, the current approach where every house relies on septic tanks and soak pits (sometimes 20 m) and narrow roads creates serious long-term risks. Wastewater can migrate laterally, weakening soil under neighboring homes, causing dampness, cracks, and foundation settlement. Inspections often stop at foundations, leaving structural, electrical, and plumbing work unchecked.
As populations grow, narrow roads and lack of reserved land for infrastructure mean the government must buy land from private owners to widen roads or install sewage systems, a costly and disruptive process. Examples include Rusororo, where retrofitting is complicated, and Kanombe, where upgrades are nearly impossible without significant payments to landowners.
Solution:
New and growing neighborhoods should:
•Reserve land early for shared sewage systems and drainage, even if treatment is funded later
•Reserve wider road corridors for future traffic growth
•Inspect all critical works, including structural, plumbing, and electrical systems, not just foundations
This forward-looking planning reduces costs, prevents environmental and structural risks, and ensures sustainable urban growth.
Cc:
@RwandaHealth @RwandaInfra @Jadouwihanganye @Dr_JimmyGasore @PaulKagame