RWANDA Infrastructure Development.

RWANDA

Publisher's Note

One key goals of the government of Rwanda, as part of its Vision 2020 is to improve the country’s infrastructure in order to bring about significant economic growth. This includes developing the country’s transport links and energy supplies plus the housing sector. Rwandans have to be very critical when it comes to the nation’s critical need to act now to salvage, maintain, improve, and expand its roads, bridges, ports, pipelines, railroads, transmission lines and other structures that support travel, commerce, and national the general national development.

Without infrastructure investment, commerce will stagnate and Rwanda’s exports, which Her Global Insights expects to increase by 40 percent by 2020, helping to lead the country out of recession, will die on the vine.

As a nation of resilient people, it is time ripe enough for the natives to tell our story as we celebrate the success of what has been achieved in the last two decades. No-one believed, neither in Rwanda nor outside it, that this small, divided Central African country would recover and rise from the ruins.

Despite the difficulties of the past, Rwanda is striding forward. This is true also in the realm of human rights, exemplified by the constitutional stipulations prioritizing gender equality and prohibiting discrimination of any kind. Through this edition, I am optimistic that as you read the pages herein, you share our experience in order to know us better.

Have a good time as you read through this edition. Thanks!

Rwanda's achievements defining the future

ENERGY SECTOR

Access to safe, a consistent and cost effective energy is crucial to realize the levels of growth defined under the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS II). Rwanda’s energy is a critical productive sector that can catalyze broader economic growth and contribute significantly to facilitating the achievement of the country’s ambitious social economic transformation agenda.

In order to realize the desired development impact of 7-year Government Program, EDPRS-II and Vision 2020, the Government of Rwanda adopted and implemented a very significant and inclusive national energy policies and plans capable of taking into account dynamic factors such as, economic and population growth, natural resource constraints and dispersed settlement patterns. It is expected that by the end of the EDPRS II in 2018, the electricity generation installed capacity shall be 563MW, while the overall access to electricity nationwide shall be at 70%, with the priority being given to the electrification of economic areas. In response to this, during the fiscal year 2015/2016, the following achievements were registered in the energy sector:

ENERGY GENERATION

During 2015/2016 fiscal year, 30MW were commissioned leading to a cumulative capacity of 190MW; this was mainly

achieved by the completion and operationalization of KivuWatt Methane Gas Power Plant with an installed capacity of 26 MW and 4MW from several micro hydro power plants.

It is expected that in the FY 2016/17, 17 MW from Gishoma Peat and Giciye II hydro power Plants will be added to the national grid increasing the total installed capacity to 207MW. Access to Electricity

During fiscal year 2015/16, additional 89,964 households were connected to the grid totaling to 589,964 households while 37,250 households have been connected to off grid in partnership with private sector players.

INSTALLED CAPACITY (MW)

In a bid to accelerate economic growth, numerous productive use areas were connected to electricity, notably: 25 water pumping stations, 324 markets, 34 milk collection centers, 16 irrigation sites and 171 telecom towers.

The figure below indicates the trend of household connections over the past four (4) years.

In the next fiscal year, 80,000 connections (including 1,451 connections in designated productive use and social sites) representing 3% increase and 255,363 households from off grid solutions representing 11% are targeted to be connected.

The off grid targets will be achieved through partnership with private sector players that are contributing to the

implementation of the rural electrification strategy.

ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

To improve quality of power supply and loss reduction, the construction of new transmission lines and the related substations as well as distribution infrastructures were constructed. Some were completed and others are still ongoing.

TRANSMISSION LINE

220 KV Mirama–Shango, 98 km transmission line connecting Rwanda and Uganda. Line construction and testing completed 100% and substation construction is ongoing. 110kV line Rukarara-Kilinda 32 km Line and substation, construction is at 95%. 220 kV Shango–Karongi-Rubavu–Goma 167 km transmission line connecting Rwanda with DRC. Transmission line construction completed at 80% and construction of Shango substation is ongoing. 110kV Ntendezi- Bugarama 23 km transmission and substation construction is at 80%.

The construction of the following Transmission lines and related substations will be undertaken in the next fiscal year 2016/17; High Voltage (HV) Transmission lines: 110kV Rulindo-Gicumbi-GabiroMusha ·

High Voltage (HV) substation: 110/30kV Rulindo and Gifurwe substations · High Voltage (HV) Transmission lines 220kV Kibuye-Kilinda-

Kigoma-Bugesera and substations. High Voltage (HV) Transmission line: 220kV Rusumo-Bugesera-Shango·

High Voltage (HV) Transmission lines: 220kV Kigoma-Butare-NgoziGitega· 110kV Jabana-Mt.

Kigali-Gahanga and substations.

During the fiscal year 2015/16, distribution network constructed were; § 842.96 km out of 766 km MV planned (110.04% of annual target) § 1155.53 km out of 1302 km LV planned (88.75% of annual target) 336Km of MV and LV lines are expected to be constructed in Fiscal year 2016/17.

SUSTAINABLE USE OF BIOMASS ENERGY SOLUTIONS

The ongoing programs to promote sustainable use

of biomass fuels, whilst supporting transition to best alternatives to mitigate social and health impacts of traditional use of biomass resources to reduce the wood dependence from 94%- 50% by 2018. The National Biogas program (domestic and institutional), use of Improved Cook Stoves (ICSs) and use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were adopted.

BIOGAS

In the promotion of use of biogas as an alternative source of energy, the following

achievements were registered: 2,275 new biogas plants both domestic and institutional were constructed in Districts, and institutions such as schools and prisons, rehabilitation of non- operational digesters. In cooperation with MINALOC a follow-up was done to evaluate the operation of the biogas and identify non-operational digesters. In collaboration with WDA (Work force Development Authority) the Biogas Curriculum was developed. Masons in 22 Districts were trained in biogas construction while the remaining 8 Districts will be trained during fiscal year 2016/17.

IMPROVED COOKING STOVES (ICS)

Technical support was provided for the promotion, marketing and dissemination of 8700 improved cook stoves. Use of liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Educational campaign on the use of LPG was conducted in urban areas especially in the city of Kigali and the program is ongoing in secondary cities.

TRANSPORT SECTOR

A number of transport infrastructure projects were implemented to improve the domestic and external link to international Markets. Interventions in the transport sector focused on national roads (upgrade, rehabilitation and maintenance); air transport; inland water

infrastructure development and safety; trade facilitation; Resource mobilization for infrastructure development and regulatory frameworks for the transport sector. Major achievements include:

ROADS CONSTRUCTION, REHABILITATION AND MAINTENANCE

In total, 3 road rehabilitation projects, 6 unpaved national roads were upgraded and 16 national paved and unpaved roads (1,092.8km) were maintained as indicated here below:

ROADS REHABILITATION:

Karongi-Rubengera (17km) completed at 75% end of June 2016; Kigali-Gatuna (77.8km) was completed and inaugurated in September, 2016; Huye-Kitabi (53) is under study review and procurement process for works.

UPGRADING OF UNPAVED ROADS TO PAVED ROADS

Kivu Belt Lot 4&5 (66km) is almost completed at (98.5%); Kivu Belt Lot 6 (24.5km) and Kivu Belt Lot 7 (48km) are ongoing and overall works progress is at 20% and 28% respectively; Base-Kirambo-ButaroKidaho (63km) is ongoing and completed at 12%; Base-Gicumbi-Rukomo (51 km) which is at 8%, the overallsite installation is completed at 70%; · Musanze_ Nyakinama (9km) is completed at 75%.

NATIONAL PAVED AND UNPAVED ROADS MAINTENANCE

In 2015/2016, earmarked resources for roads maintenance projects saw 16 national paved and unpaved roads under maintenance program (1,092.8km). These included Muhanga-Karongi (78km) & Retaining wall (near Urwibutso); Rusizi- Bugarama (38.4km) & Gisakura Black spot; Kigali-Kayonza (74.8km); Kayonza- Rusumo

(92km) & Cyunuzi Blackspot; Kayonza-Kagitumba (116km); Musanze- Rubavu (67 km); Kicukiro-Nemba (61 km); Kigali-Huye-Akanyaru (157km) & Umukobwa mwiza, kamonyi, ruhango Blackspots; RuhangoKinazi Cassava Factory (36km) completed at 58%; Save-Mamba road (27km) completed; Kibungo-Ramiro road (56km) completed at 40%; Kibeho Kivu-Muganza (14km) – Access road to Muganza Tea Factory

completed; KabarondoAkagera-Kucyanyirangegene (50km) completed; Access road to Nshili Tea Factory (19km) completed and Mbuga- Mpimbi-BurerabanaNyabinoni (Lot1: 34km)

URBAN ROADS NETWORK UPGRADED

In the promotion of urban cities development; rigorous efforts were directed towards urban roads network rehabilitation and upgrading

to encourage the development of businesses; reduce congestion on Kigali city and play an important role with regard to economic growth.

This saw Gicumbi and Rusizi urban roads completed with 4km and 2.7km respectively; KCC access roads (3km) completed; Kanombe deviation (2.2km) completed, Musanze urban roads (5km) almost completed, at 95% and Rubavu urban roads (5.4km) are at a completion rate of 80%.

ROADS CONDITIONS

The efforts invested in the above projects (rehabilitation, upgrading and maintenance) have considerably improved riding quality and roads conditions countrywide; currently 95% of national paved road network, 55% of unpaved national road network from 36% previous year and 45% of district unpaved road network from 29% last year are in good condition. The combined

national paved and unpaved road in good condition stands at 72.6 % from 65.5% in Fiscal year 2014/15 which shows a positive increment.

The demarcation of the road reserves for the national paved network was increased from 510km, to 1,191km.

FEEDER ROADS DEVELOPMENT

To ensure market access for rural agricultural production, a number of Feeder roads

were rehabilitated and upgraded. The table below shows the performance over the past 3 years.

URBANISATION AND RURAL SETTLEMENT SECTOR

Under the urbanization and Rural settlement sector, a number of achievements were registered. Notably, relocation of households from scattered settlements and high risk zones into planned and economically viable settlements, development of secondary cities, facilitation for affordable housing program, upgrade of urban centers, Public assets management and elaboration of regulatory framework and promotion of locally produced construction materials.

These achievements have contributed immensely to the improved wellbeing of the Rwandan population in general.

DEVELOPMENT OF SECONDARY CITIES

Rwanda Urban Development program for six secondary cities was developed in collaboration with World Bank. The project focuses on development of basic infrastructure particularly roads and drainage system. The preliminary designs were elaborated and the final detailed designs are in progress.

In addition, a detailed roadmap for Green Secondary Cities’ development was completed and is under implementation.

Dominating the region through constructing Mega Structure Buildings

The way to go is Roko, for anyone considering doing sort of construction and architectural project in Rwanda. The construction company has gained the trust and respect in several communities, like Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. ROKO Construction Limited was founded in Uganda way back in 1969. Today, the investment is Uganda’s head Construction and Civil Engineering Groups.

ROKO CONSTRUCTION IN RWANDA

Amongst the notable Hotel projects ROKO has constructed in Rwanda is Serena Kigali and Lake Kivu resort;

Nyungwe ecological lodge at the Nyungwe National park, Rwanda. With the realization of diminishing world ecological endowments, it has become necessary to conserve existing resources for current

and future generations. The construction company has also worked on several Mega structure inventions and innovations and some of them include; Renovation of Kigali International Airport whereby

the first phase has been completed, second phase is ongoing while the third phase remain awaited, Ramada apartments, Rugarama apartments, Kingfaisal hospital, ACACIA building, Imanzi Ecotourism (ongoing project), Golf club hotel (ongoing project), Auto-centre (ongoing project), University Gorilla Nest and the construction of the University Global health. Among other notable successful projects include the newly opened Marriot Hotel in Kigali, the Eco-lodge in Nyungwe National Park, extension and refurbishment of Bank of Kigali, construction of 30 apartments for SORAS at True Cyahafi in

Kigali, construction of 50 high standing flats at Boulevard de L’Umuganda in Kacyiru, renovation and extension of Kivu Sun Hotel, and renovation and

extension of Diplomat Hotel in Kigali, to mention but a few.

ROKO Construction Limited has grown into a self-sufficient company in the majority

of construction disciplines and provided employment for thousands of the population in the region, placing great emphasis on training its

technicians and craftsmen to produce an exceptionally high standard of workmanship. Boasting of a legacy spanning forty five years in the construction arena, ROKO has since inception, nurtured its brand into one kind of exceptional construction company benchmarked on the quality of its works that speaks for itself.

The co founders, Rohrer and Koehler, operate with a vision to set the company with big strides for further growth in Africa. ROKO Construction Limited, as it is known now has become a household name synonymous with quality in construct with efficiency and timely delivery, having its building materials manufactured locally by the PTA member countries.

The design and construction of new tourist facilities has embraced the use of environmentally friendly, biodegradable materials, whilst maintaining high standards and causing as little disruption to the environment as possible. ROKO was the best evaluated bidder in terms of cost, and methodology to achieve the set parameters.

The external works including road works and the swimming pool had to be executed by hand together with hand operated equipment to cause as little disturbance to nature as possible. It therefore came as no surprise to ROKO management when this project won the International Hotels Awards in Association with Bloomberg Television – Best International new small Hotel Construction & Design for the year 2011.” The company has a range of projects that have been successful as a result of this method. Most notable is the Kigali Serena Hotel renovation in 2008 - 2009. The sheer volume of materials and fabric required to

complete the project within a record one year, presented a challenge which ROKO took in their stride as they have an in-house logistics department that liaises with the suppliers, shippers and customs to facilitate smooth delivery of their requirements on a timely basis.

At the successful completion of the project while others marvel at the beauty of the building, the ROKO team look at a review of the process and discuss the lessons learnt to enable them execute the next project successfully by building on their strengths and navigating around their weak points to make them strong points.

MORE CONSISTENCY

With the advent of increased competition, one area that ROKO has time and again placed emphasis on is the training of its human resource and creating a friendly and rewarding working atmosphere for its staff, in order to maintain their number one spot as a company that provides quality finishes. Competition leads to a lot of movement in construction artisan staff in search of better employment conditions. To this end, ROKO has been able to maintain its staff by being ahead of the competition in regard to staff welfare.

In order to participate in supporting the Country’s development goals, ROKO construction has created employment opportunities whereby they employ between 600-800 permanent workers

and over 2000 temporally workers a step that has positively changed their standards of living.

The company has adapted to new changes in construction methods and materials

to provide the quality to the ever changing demand and taste of the developers, these come with necessity to train our personnel. As for company growth, the business has seen an average increase of 15% per year and, coupled with many new projects in the pipeline, things look good. The construction hub is always open to expanding into new markets and always welcoming new projects around the region.

When it comes to expansion, the company management is optimistic about the future: Part of its expansion policy is investing; the company entails to stay as the number one contractor. Not only is the company playing the market smart, they are investing in new places to manufacture materials. ROKO is investing a lot into a new plant in Rwanda; $750,000 is going towards a new batching (concrete) plant.

ROKO Construction Ltd has an open approach to future projects, emphasizing its philosophy of a perfect balance of quality over price: Nobody chooses ROKO because it is the lowest in price; the company pricing is competitive for the quality and also continues to look at new markets where the competition may be lower.

Rwandair acquires Boeing 737-800NG

Recently, RwandAir’ acquired Boeing 737-800NG from Seattle, United States on Monday and it is the first aircraft among the first of two new orders from the American manufacturer.

The new aircraft christened ‘Kalisimbi’ is expected to increase the airline’s fleet to ten aircraft and it is expected to facilitate the carrier’s growing routes on the continent and beyond.

The airline in September acquired brand new Airbus 330-200, -nicknamed ‘Ubumwe’ (unity) and the expansion of the fleet is at a time when the airline is preparing to start flights to Gatwick, London’s second-busiest airport next year and is also eyeing the American market in the course of 2017.

In recent months the airline has launched flights to Cotonou, Benin and Abidjan, Ivory Coast hence bringing the total number of destinations to 19 destinations.

Other destinations include; Nairobi, Entebbe, Mombasa, Bujumbura, Lusaka, Juba, Douala, Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Cotonou, Johannesburg, Dubai, Lagos, Libreville and Brazzaville.

The airline is also set to open routes to Harare in Zimbabwe and Mumbai, India in the few coming days.

The expansion is also based on projections that the airline’s capacity could grow from the current 500,000 passengers annually to more than 3,000,000 in the next five years.

RwandAir is IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certified. The globally-recognised and accepted evaluation certification confirms that the airline’s operational management and control systems meet international civil aviation safety and other standards.

Rwanda Transport Development Agency

For quality and durability of the rural, urban and international transport network

RTDA is a Government Institution which is under Ministry of Infrastructure. The government agency operates with well defined objectives including reduction and control of transport costs ensuring the quality and durability of the rural, urban and international transport network; improve safety for goods and passengers on the principle modes of transport, Increase mobility of the

population in order to improve access to essential services, education, and employment, Establish a system to ensure sustainable financing of road maintenance, and Facilitate access to cost effective transport services In order to achieve these objectives, the government of Rwanda decided to set up RTDA specifically to manage and monitor all activities in the transport sector.

RTDA VISION

To gain modern infrastructure, cost effective and quality services, while ensuring sustainable economic growth and developing eco-friendly, safe and seamless integrated multimodal transport system for passenger and goods both at national and regional level.

RTDA MISSION

To contribute towards the realization of the economic development and poverty reduction objectives as formulated in strategic policy guidance, such as Vision 2020 and EDPRS, by the establishment and rational management of transport infrastructure and services

ROAD MAINTENANCE FUND

The Road Maintenance Fund (RMF) is an institution established by the law No.49/2013 of 28/06/2013 and published in the official gazette of the Republic of Rwanda, to ensure collection and funding for the maintenance of road networks in Rwanda.

Ever since its establishment in 1998, the Road Maintenance Fund has achieved significant progress with regards to funding road maintenance, in spite of limited resources currently available.

From the time of its creation until now, RMF has recorded significant achievements in terms of road maintenance and bridge rehabilitation. Unfortunately, these achievements are at a modest level in comparison to general maintenance requirements throughout the country.

This modest level is the consequence of insufficient of funds, lack of execution competence of contractors and the slow procurement processes on the side of roads owners (MININFRA,RTDA and MVK).

Efforts should be made in order to increase funds through exploiting all resources as prescribed by law, to take into consideration present working load of contractors before awarding

another contract, and finally to speed up the procurement processes and to make a good choice ion selection of contractors to be awarded the road maintenance tender.

The Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) is responsible for the overall formulation of policies for the road sector, as well as the implementation of road sector strategies (maître d’ouvrage).

Formally it is responsible for the overall management of the classified road network. In line with government policy of decentralisation, district roads management is being handed over to the Districts. It is in this regard, that the urban roads in Kigali are under the responsibility of Kigali City Council.

The management of the rural feeder roads (non-classified) is vested in the Districts.

This implies that two ministries are involved in the management of road sub-sector today, viz. MININFRA and MINALOC, which governs the districts and the City of Kigali.

According to article 3 and article 11 of the law No.49/2013 of 28/06/2013 determining the mission, organization responsibilities of organs of the Road Maintenance Fund (RMF), RMF shall have the main task of receiving, managing and the disbursement of funds for the maintenance of public roads as determined by presidential order.

RMF ensures funding of road maintenance on the basis of an annual program of activities prepared by department for roads in MININFRA, the Kigali City Council and the district authorities (maître d’oeuvre) and approved by the Cabinet Meeting.

ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE

The length of the Rwandan road network is estimated to be about 14.000 km. Out of this road Network, 4.698 km length were suggested by a study done in the year 2005, as maintainable and Considered as classified Road Network. The proposed classified Road Network as a result of the 2005 study still

requires the final and official consent by the parliament.

Until the official approval of the above study, the specifications contained in it are regarded as generally binding.

Within classified road network, the MININFRA Transport Sub-Sector Plan (2008-2012) included urban roads of the country. The city of Kigali has a road network of 1.044 km length. This adds up to a total length of road network to be maintained by MININFRA, 5.742,00 km.

The responsible authorities for the maintenance of classified road are:

For National Roads (RN): MININFRA, Policy Planning and Capacity Building Unit (PPCBU).

For District Roads (RD): An individual executive committee of 30 districts, governed by the directorate of infrastructure.

STRATEGIES

• Diversify and strengthen our resource base, with a focus on levy collection and other sources to boost our revenue hence maintain roads to the highest level of standards.

• Develop people and Mechanisms in order to translate our vision and values into actions.

• Enhance and strengthen reciprocal and healthy collaboration between Road Maintenance Fund and all stakeholders in the road maintenance sub-sector.

• Demonstrate excellence in program management through systems and structures.

GOALS:

• Improvement of Road Maintenance in an efficient and timely manner to

align with vision 2020, which focuses on improvement of Infrastructure and the transport sector in particular.

• To strengthen, outsource revenue collection as determined by the law, in order to maintain efficiently and effectively the classified Road Network.

• Update and strengthen operating systems and procedures that will enable the Fund to meet its vision, mission and plans.

• To setup training programs of capacity building in order to ensure optimal staff performance.

• Enhance collaborations with key partners and donors

After the war in 1994, all institutions were shattered. The same applied to the education sector. Many teachers had fled the country, others had lost their dear lives, others were trying to return back home but with little capacity to keep on with their teaching profession. Schools were not operating to their best yet there a big demand for education services created by the big number of children that were returning home from their refugee countries.

In this kind of atmosphere, many privately owned schools were cropping up especially in the major towns and cities to supplement on the little education services that were available at the time.

BRIGHT ACADEMY

Working towards perfecting and delivering result oriented services

This background saw the birth of the renowned Bright Academy, a private primary school in Rwanda. Bright Academy Day and Boarding Primary School is located in Nyagatare. According to Saruhara Emmanuel, the Legal Representative of the school, Bright Academy which is owned by parents, has a history that narrates a humble beginning way back in 1998 as a coaching center

Saruhara, School Legal Representative. Tel: +250788308168 brightacademy098@yahoo.com www.brightacademy.rw

under a tree shade with only one teacher from Uganda.

“Interestingly, no one knew how fast the school would grow. The demand for the services was very high that in so short a time the number students increased so drastically that the proprietors were forced to rent land and build temporally structures, Emmanuel explains. Today Bright Academy is a fully fledged day and boarding primary and secondary school

Emmanuel

with all the necessary education and teaching requirements.

ALWAYS SHINING BRIGHT

Since its establishment the school has shown a very good potential with very good performance year after year and always took not above the tenth or eighth positions among the best performing schools in the country. “Proudly I am glad to note that in 2012, the best performing girl in the country came from our school,” Emmanuel prides.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The nation has seen Bright academy rise to achieve big in

the education sector. Looking into the early days of its establishment, the school had not even any structures apart from the temporally shelters that were not conducive enough for learning. Today

the entire campus is endowed with beautiful structures comprised of classrooms, dormitories, the administration block, a school clinic, libraries, laboratories, to mention but a few.

The school farm that is keeping cows that produce milk so the pupils are fed on a full diet, vegetables are also grown on the farm and these too supplement on the diet.

Feeding is not a problem at Bright Academy and this explains their brightness and good performance,” says the Legal Representative proudly.

MESSAGE

It is worth saying that for quality education Bright Academy is the only way to go. The school welcomes every Rwandan parent to bring children to get access to the quality and affordable education. “We are here for you, to provide to the children of Rwanda best skills and we prepare them for tomorrow’s leaders,” Emmanuel calls. Today the school has a big vision and has taken to its maturity and is self sustained with all equipment. This evidenced by the type of students that have passed through the caring hands of Bright Academy.

“Without forgetting, it is important for me to commend the government of Rwanda for putting in place this kind of environment that allows for Rwandans to participate privately towards the socio-economic development of this country,” the headmaster commends.

He further notes that the entire success of this school is, on a larger part attributed to the leadership in Rwanda that has always been working closely with us. There is a very significant support from the government that has enabled us to reach this level of performance.

WASAC strategic plan 2013-18

setting ambitious strategies for water supply and sanitation

Rwanda ‘s overall development objectives and planning tools are driven by the Vision 2020, EDPRS, Government 7 years program, MDGs.

The EDPRS 2 which runs from 2012/132017/18 has set very ambitious targets for the water supply and sanitation sector, aiming to reach 100% coverage rate by 2017. The EDPRS 2 has prioritized water supply and sanitation services in the thematic themes as a critical service that will contribute significantly to attainment of the growth needed for Rwanda during the next five years.

It is from this perspective that WATSAN would like to ensure affective delivery of adequate, reliable, and sustainable services for water supply and sanitation for social and economic development. The present strategic plan for the water supply and sanitation sector is a revision of the previous one (approved in 2010) that was implemented for only one and half years. The revision of the Watsan strategic plan was necessary to ensure that the sector strategy is aligned to the new objectives, targets, guidelines and thrust of Rwanda’s second EDPRS 2013/4 -2017/8.

The present strategic plan was arrived at through comprehensive discussion and participation of all stakeholders in water supply and sanitation which includes bilateral and multilateral development partners, INGOs, local NGOs, Central Government Ministries, all districts, national institutions responsible for the six cross cutting themes identified for the EDPRS 2 in consultative meetings lead by the MININFRA and EWSA in identification of challenges, priority setting, and

identification of programs for the short term, medium term and long term to implement the current strategy and reach the targets set for the EDPRS 2 and the Watsan sector.

The existing resources provided by the GoR and development partners including NGOs for the period 2012-2015 for the core basis of implementation of the strategic plan and budget for the programs.

But the financing gaps that still exist are expected to be bridged through the GoR budget allocation directly to districts, mobilization from existing and future development partners working in the Watsan sector, long term loans acquired by the GoR for the big sector projects that will be implemented by EWSA. The envisaged long term investment by the sector under the leadership of EWSA from 2016

to 2017 and beyond will need concerted efforts by the GoR and the sector to rise funding from all partners and the GoR.

In this regard a sector development partner’s conference seems one among many possible approaches to agree on the way forward and the timing of resources to fund the long term investment for water supply and sanitation to meet the fast growing demand arising out of the a

rapidly growing population in Rwanda. It is in this regard that the current Watsan Strategic Plan remain a dynamic document during the next five years and is expected to take into account the results of the 2012 census of Rwanda in adjusting demand for water by district and water production levels required for the next twenty five years in Rwanda. The GoR and in particular the Ministry of Infrastructure

would like to thank all development partners, institutions and individual experts for their participation and support in preparation of this new sector strategic plan for Watsan. Special thanks go to JICA for the devotion and continued support and follow up of this new Watsan strategic plan till its finalization. To all, we say thank you for your valuable partnership, and continued collaboration.

Lemigo Hotel, for best hospitality

Providing everything right where it is needed

Since its inauguration in September 2010, Lemigo hotel in the city of Kigali has excelled in providing a refreshing unique experience to Rwanda where it is a destination for many guests in the country. Lemigo hotel brings a distinctive business lifestyle that succeeds in combining luxurious living rooms together with functional specious office and conventions in Rwanda.

The hotel is facilitated with 176 rooms with high standard comfort, 4 restaurants including a VIP Lounge, 4 bars and more with beautiful open air space including one in the swimming pool itself, not forgetting 9 conference halls with capacity ranging from 20 to 1000 people.

The meeting rooms, in addition to gaping the country’s increasing demand in accommodation of top business travelers, are set to satisfy the need for important international bodies and individuals attending conventions in Rwanda.

Apparently the hotel is well equipped with facilities to cater comprehensively for the needs of discerning business travelers, country diplomats, and tourists in an environment of luxurious resort living and absolute serenity.

ALSO AT LEMIGO

Meeting rooms; 6 big conference halls to accommodate between 300 and 1000 people, 1 conference hall that can be partitioned into rooms to accommodate smaller workshops/seminar groups with people ranging between 25, 50, 80, and 150.

Packing; 150 vehicles inside the hotel and 50 free parking space surrounding the hotel compound.

Sports and health facilities; here with pride to offer a wide variety of body health facilities including a standard swimming pool, a gym, saunas, spa, and massage (the only payable at US $ 20/hour).

STRATEGICALLY SITUATED

Right on the main road, half way between the Kigali international airport and the center of Kigali city, where a guest will use less than 7 minutes drive to get to any of these two strategic business places, is the location of Lemigo hotel.

Privileged still, Lemigo hotel is incomparably close to a good neighborhood with most important government institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Trade and Industry, government agencies such as Rwanda Revenue Authority-RRA, Rwanda Environmental Management AuthorityREMA, Rwanda Development Board-RDB, to mention but a few.

Lemigo site is advantaged with being close to most of the independent International organizations that serve as a link to civil society and the private sector in Rwanda. Such of this kind include the European Union Mission, United Nations Children’s Fund-UNICEF, the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation-FAO, and the World Health Organisation-WHO. Also in the neighborhood are bilateral bodies such as the US, Dutch, UK, South African Embassies and International NGOs like World Vision, Catholic Relief Services, CRS, Care International, Action Aid, etc.

All the hotel guests have the incomparable advantage of having a good choice

of a variety of entertainment during their free time including a wide selection of international restaurants and nice pubs located between Nyarutarama and Kimihurura. The hotel is located in a very safe area where guests, upon their will, have the opportunity to organize individually or in groups, jogging and walking to visit surrounding beautiful places.

STANDARDS

Lemigo is proudly a 4-Star Hotel Category. Nevertheless, the general

standards found in this hotel (including spacious rooms, basic room commodities such king size beds, high speed internet connection, mini bars, flat screen Tvs, Air conditioners and assorted high quality gadgets such as safety boxes, hair dryers, iron boxes, etc, gives it the strength to position in such a category with a level of a comfort people usually pay for in high category hotels.

Lemigo has a post modern and original architectural design! The top fashion material used to build the hotel, combined with a finishing that has a modern architectural design is perfectly set for a marriage between the historical classic construction and impressive futuristic styles leave in every visitor a deep feeling of amazement and sense of profound vitality the buildings are breathing. Finally, a countless number of visitors express a real admiration for such hidden jewellery in Kigali’s quiet residential area.

STILL YOUNG BUT IMMACULATE

Only five years counting today but Lemigo is already accommodating people and organizations from different international standards. Several national and international conferences with guests and delegates from all over the world have been hosted in this gorgeous business central place.

Much as the hotel is new in Rwanda market, well qualified staff conducted by a very organized and committed management enables the hotels to quickly keep pace despite all the turbulences unavoidably affecting all big affecting all big companies especially in the hospitality sector that are still young in this country. Inspite of the young age the hotel can still proud of its achievements within this short but rich period of activity.

Consequently, the acquired experience together with the all resources that have been dedicated to date plus the young, creative and flexible management team, has enabled the hotel to seize each day as an opportunity to position itself as a potential company that is optimistic to take the leading position in this industry.

RWANDA HOUSING AUTHORITY

A glance at Rwanda’s Housing sector

The housing industry in Rwanda is still uneven with much of the construction being undertaken by private under- capitalized firms and individuals as opposed to large-scale property developers. Looking at the settlement system in Rwanda today, one realizes that 7% of it, is planned settlement while the rest of 93% is catered for by impulsive settlement. In most cases individual property developers are given plots of land and they build according to their convenience, using plans of their own interest, and according to their financial capacity, but not minding much about the areas where they build. The result of this is definitely slum areas characterized by bad and small structures build near or next to fine big building yet in good priced areas where infrastructure is hard to provide.

However, this will soon become a story to tell since planned estate buildings are gradually sprouting up through both private and public property developers.

Big projects are being done and a better settlement system is underway. Much as there is this kind upward trend, the demand in the market is still underserved.

The Rwanda housing sector has strategies to address the cost of construction at all levels. The crucial issue is that building materials and skilled resource personnel are imported and this is seemingly very expensive. According to survey, by UN Habitat, IFC, together with government organs concerned with housing need in Rwanda, there is big market despite the fact that repayment capacity remains a challenge. Yet challenging too, is the issue of resolving limited access to long-term financing by lending.

WAY FORWARD

As the National Investment Strategy places much emphasis on support of the private sector in infrastructure

development, Rwanda’s housing sector has a beacon of hope as more and better planned estate development continues to show up especially in big cities and major towns. The development of the Urban Master plan and the construction of basic infrastructure on

sites will enable investors to orient their investments.

The Rwanda Urban Housing policy seeks to execute a number of policy actions. Several of them have been executed while others are in the pipeline. These include, among many:

Develop programs aimed at providing urban hosing to a cross-section of the over growing population. This will definitely call for more construction projects with planned estates on allotted sites.

The government of Rwanda entails to establish minimum standards in the construction of housing with respect to construction codes and provision of ample basic facilities such as water and sanitation, access to reliable power sources and basic social services within easy reach of residential areas. As a policy action too, the government provides the legal and regulatory framework to encourage private sector participation in the development of urban housing, in otherworld’s the development of housing estates.

Other actions in place include:

∫ Facilitate the development of housing stock in order to cater for increased demand for ownership and short-term occupation.

∫ Establish ‘owner-copier’ housing under affordable mortgage schemes guaranteed by employers, both private and public.

∫ Develop and establish tax incentives schemes to encourage people to obtain housing loans.

∫ Facilitate the access of housing finance for low and middle income earners.

∫ Establish guidelines on the upgrading of informal supplements and put in place regulatory measures to ensure that expropriations if required are carried out in line with internationally acceptable norms.

∫

Decentralize the registration of land tittles to ease the acquisition of land plots.

The government has made all efforts to put in place a favorable investment regime in order to attract foreign direct investment. The investment code enhances the competitiveness of Rwanda as an investment hub which leads to quality production in goods and services.

MOUNT MERU PETROLEUM LTD

Proudly serving to provide for all your petroleum needs

Mount Meru Petroleum Rwanda Ltd is one of the member companies of the big Mount Meru Group Ltd that operates in a number of countries in the East African region including Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia, and Malawi.

According to Francis Karera, Business Development Manager of Mount Meru Petroleum Rwanda Ltd, the company started its operations in the country in 2013, running a number of petrol stations within and out of the country capital Kigali.

“Today the oil company is proud to own ten petrol stations, some being rented and others owned by the company,” Karera explains. He adds that one of the company dreams is build more of stations at least one in every district of Rwanda.

The main mission of Mount Meru Rwanda Ltd is to become the largest petroleum selling company in the country. “Our vision is to provide the best services in the sector, and promote the parent company name in the region as we maintain best international standards,” Karera says.

The company stations are well facilitated with water hydrants and fire extinguishers to fight fire. We do all we can to meet the accepted standards by abiding by the regulations and rules governing petrol stations in the country.

Talking about achievements, Karera says that the journey has been a long one. “As we started in 2013, we were only 4 people working as the

staff in the entire company. Today, I am proud to mention that the company employs over 120 skilled and well disciplined workers in different departments as managers, accountants, supervisors, drivers, pump attendants, etc,” he says.

“The achievements here in plus many more not mentioned are all attributed to the good leadership good businesses environment that we have experienced while doing business in Rwanda,” Karera says. Rwanda has good policies that allows for foreign investment. He adds Mount Meru is very pleased with the governance and they are very ready to continue serving Rwandans while supporting the Rwanda government programs.

THE FUTURE

During the years to come, mount Meru Petroleum Rwanda Ltd is setting strategies to construct more modern stations across the country. “There is already land purchased and set aside for these projects,” Karera notes.

Mount Meru Group has a number of businesses producing other products that are produced in other countries. The future plan is to introduce these products in Rwanda. “We are working on introducing gas production in order for Rwandans to take the opportunity to use cheaper and safer means of cooking and lighting especially in rural homes.

Société Pétrolière Ltd targets to become an innovative company through use of technology

Societe Petroliere is a limited liability private company incorporated in the Republic of Rwanda with a principal activity of importation, distribution and marketing of petroleum products through its eighteen retail stations countrywide and it is 100% locally owned.

BACKGROUND

The origins of the company goes back to 1967, when it was known as Fina Rwanda, in 1985,the company merged with BP to create BP Fina Rwanda. But this was not the only modification that the company made over the years because later during the year 1998, the company was sold to ENGEN, which then passed it to Sakirwa Petroleum in 2001.It later adopted a new name, Société Pétrolière, in 2007 following a change in share holding structure. Since 2010, the company was named, Société Pétrolière Limited (SP Ltd) based on the new Company Act that was adopted by the Government of Rwanda in 2009.

Today, the company has managed to position itself as the leader of the sector in the country and its currently an equal opportunity employer with a total workforce of about 60 employees including 15 workers of SP Aviation and

2 of SP Kenya Limited and SP Tanzania Limited.

Société Pétrolière main asset has always been its 100% Rwandan origins, which makes it one of the key factors of the country’s development.

The company has stayed close to the growth of Rwanda over the last years, and it has kept growing with it. Another asset has been its range of products, including Diesel petrol Kerosene, JET A1, Lubricating

Oils and LPG. The company also owns its own GAS Filling Plant at Gikondo Industrial Area.

Within its current projects, the company is completely focused on the construction of its new deposit, outside Kigali, which will give it more capacity on fuel to keep growing in the country and continuing as the leader of the sector. Storage capacity is still a challenge in the oil industry in Rwanda, so this new deposit will help them to face this objective, collaborating also to the development of the whole sector in the country.

Furthermore, Société Pétrolière aims to be an innovative company by using technology within its operations. For example, it is already using mobile and Internet facilities for its customers to make the payment procedures easier. Innovation is an essential element for the company to keep growing in the market and, to achieve this, Société Pétrolière is open to receive new partners from industries such as Communications or ICT.

In the following years, the company is going to become a big and strong brand not only in Rwanda but abroad the country, getting to connect the whole East African Region.

China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC)

Delivering with standards of quality

INTRODUCTION

China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) is a largescale, state-owned international contractor serving as a flagship and platform for the overseas operations of China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC). It has carried out its first project - the construction project of Kigali-Rusumo Road - in Rwanda as early as in 1974. According to the data of year 2011 from Rwanda National Statistics Bureau, China Road and Bridge Corporation has completed about 70 percentage of existing asphalt roads in Rwanda.

Quality is the most significant undefeated factor of China Road and Bridge Corporation in Rwanda. Each project in Rwanda undertaken by China Road is strictly completed in accordance with the standards of quality and duration requirements of the client. Since 1974, the company has succeeded in constructing more than 30 major road construction projects, like Kigali-Ruhengeri

Road construction, Ruhengeri-Cyanika Road Construction, Butare-Cyangugu Road Construction, Gitarama-Ngororero Road Construction, Ngororero-Mukamira Road Construction, Kigali Urban Road Upgrading Project, Multinational Road Construction Crete Congo/Nile Lot3, Kivu Belt Road Construction Lot4&5, Bugarama-Cimerwa Road Project, Resurfacing works of Aircraft movement area at Kamenbe International Airport, etc.

During the execution of the projects, China Road has earned trust and credit with the financing banks by providing the projects with high quality and competitive budget evaluation. Till now, the company has undertaken the projects in Rwanda financed by KFW, ADB, IDA, BADEA, World Bank and Export-Import Bank of China, the last of which has financed two projects in Rwanda, and is negotiating with Rwanda Government

Li Jiang, General Director, CRBC.

Lot 4: Mwityazo-Ruvumbu (24.4km) and Lot 5: Ruvumbu-Kibuye (41.6km)

The Most Beautiful Road in Rwanda was funded by Export-Import Bank of China, the project is 66 km in length and was completed in April 2016.

the third one, for all of which China Road is chosen to be the contractor.

In addition to sparing no efforts to make itself one of the international leading contractors, China Road has been

for the social responsibilities it has assumed, and for the generous returns to local Rwandan people and Communities. Whenever and wherever there is

emergent work like landslide, flood or crushing of a building that needs a rescuing team, China Road is always on call. Every year, China Road Kigali Office receives several appreciation awarding for the quick action and kind offer it gives to different agencies.

Moreover, China Road Kigali Office has offered remarkable number of jobs to local citizens and has provided them with training lessons that help them master a skill to earn their bacon. At the construction sites of China Road Kigali Office, there is an interesting phenomenon that two or even three generations from the same family all work for the same project, which shows the deep trust and friendship between China Road and its Rwandan employees. In 2014, China Road has signed an MOU with WDA of the Republic of Rwanda, promising to offer internship positions to the Rwandan students to help them put the knowledge learnt at school into practice.

During the 40 years, China Road Kigali Office is well-known around Rwanda as a company that always complies with Rwandan customs and regulations, respects strictly to the local laws about labor management, environment protection and adheres to the highest ethical standards. Its proven record of overcoming engineering and environmental challenges has not only earned the company the reputation of being trustable but has also resulted in well-established client relationships which contribute to the development of a prosperous win-win future with the Republic of Rwanda.

KIGALI URBAN ROAD PROJET

Funded by Export-Import Bank of China, the project is 36km in length and was completed in October 2011. Because of the well-performed project, CRBC was awarded by Kigali City Council for “the distinguished contribution to the beautification of Kigali City”.

warmly raised by Rwanda Government

Multinational Rwanda/ Burundi Project

Rehabilitation of Multinational Road Crete Congo/Nile Project Lot3

Kigali Parents School

For your quality education, shaping future leaders

Kigali Parents is a private school that runs from Nursery to primary six. It is located in an urban setting of Kigali city, Gasabo district, Kimironko sector, Bibare cell in Nyange village, just only 12 kilometers from the city center along the road to the Eastern province.

The school whose principal is Mutazihana Charles was established in 1995 with six pupils and four teachers. In a humble beginning, renting six rooms for the nursery and primary level, the founders had an intention to provide a complete primary education. Today the school boasts of 1925 pupils and a teaching staff of 78, built on 4 acres of land in Kimironko. Kigali parents’ school has 28 classrooms where it accommodates all its pupils.

Kigali parents’ school has a vision of providing the most skilled, competitive citizens who are models of servant leadership in their communities. With its mission to provide affordable and quality education of the children of Rwanda,

the school operates with several goals that include; providing an all round basic education; ensure good educated disciplined and responsible pupils, as well having all their pupils completing primary level successfully.

EXCELLENCY

The school has registered quite a lot of academic Excellency since its inception. This astronomical performance is attributed to hard work, pastoral teaching, competent teaching staff, good learning environment, good relationship between teachers, parents and pupils and good discipline.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Kigali parents’ school offers an all round curriculum, where pupils e engaged in different activities of their own interest i.e, gymnastics, music, dance and dram, football, net ball and volleyball, to mention but a few.

Promoting ‘Made in Rwanda’ products through the furniture sub sector

For many years Gashayija has been engaged in the furniture industry and now lives to tell an interesting success story. Gashayiza is founder member of ADARWA, a cooperative that brings together carpenters around the city of Kigali. He is also the owner and proprietor of AGAMECO. Out of his initiative the cooperative was founded in 1988 in Kigali city.

BACKGROUND

According to Gashayiza, the war in 1994 that shattered almost all institutions in the country did not exempt ADARWA. Operations came to a standstill as there was no favorable working environment. “During this period everyone was on his own, without any peace, people had taken refuge in neighboring countries and Rwanda was left for the dead. However,

after the war had ended, people started getting back to rebuild what had been ruined,” He says. He adds that, it was at this time that he also initiated the idea of reviving the dying cooperative. Gashayiza participated in receiving the returnees and helping them to cope with the situation that was at that time.

Through hard work and resilience, the cooperative members worked so tirelessly to put back together what the

cooperative had lost during the war. Today the cooperative works in its own building, with offices that gives them the pride of having an address.

Gashayija gives a testimony about ADARWA and says that it is one of the strong cooperatives in the country. It started simply as an association that has today grown in a big business corporation. “The vast development of ADARWA is attributed to the new leadership which was very helpful to us,” says Gashayija. The cooperative members have also experienced a lot of improvement in both their financial status and socio-well being. Many of them own vehicle, good houses and they are able to educate and look after their families without any hardship.

In the same premises, Gashayija, in a way of diversifying and expanding his Business Empire, he opened up his own company in 2014 and named GAMECO, also dealing in furniture products, and other building materials like paints, tiles, building tools, lime, to mention but a few.

Today the company has grown into a departmental store with different stores including hardware, paint and furniture

marts. GAMECO supplies a variety of products to prisons, hospitals, hotels, and schools in different districts. This year AGAMECO has been the supplier of building materials for schools in the district of Gisagara, Southern Province. When talking about reducing unemployment in the country Gashayiza explains that the company employs 12 workers that have various sales skills working in different sections.

GAMECO is only 2 years in operation but has shown significant development and there is much evidence that it will grow even bigger to become the leading furniture and building material distributor in the country.

THE FUTURE

Since ADARWA is now able to produce products that can be demanded on international market, it is now time enough to promote made in Rwanda. “This will help Rwandans to develop further since our production will have a share at the international market.

“The future is very promising for GAMECO,” says Gashayija. He adds that his company is setting strategies to continuously improve on the services and products they offer to their clients. As our products improve on the quality, the value and price will definitely increase, which means increased capital and hence rise in members’ incomes.

Speaking about promoting made in Rwanda products, Gashayija calls upon Rwandans to change mindset and become positive towards locally produced products. He notes that buying and consuming locally produced items helps promote local industries while buying at reduced price.

Gashayija further calls upon Rwandans to embrace working together in cooperatives, noting that “two heads are better that one”. In addition, Rwandans should keep up the spirit of hard work which he says is the best tool to development while other factors follow.

Gashayija commends the government of Rwanda for its good and visionary leadership that allows for all Rwandans to develop in whatever they do. “After the war, the government was and has always been very supportive and this is one reason that AGAMECO and ADARWA have moved to such very significant level of growth,” he says. As members of ADARWA and a proprietor of AGAMECO will continue supporting the government as we struggle for the development of the country.

Gashayija Justin, proprietor of GAMECO.

Motorcycles to facilitate transport in Rwanda

FERWACOTAMO is an umbrella organization for 243 motor taxi cooperatives, with over 78,000 known members.

The federation started in 2010; just a year cooperative movement in Rwanda was transformed. The federation came in as a solution to enhance the skills and capacity

of motor tax services providers in the country. Motor Taxi transport is affordable and most used form of transport across the country.

FERWACOTAMO is made of eight major associations, which includes; UCOTAMOS G.M.T.C.U UCOTAMOKI UCOOMONO UNESCOM

N.U.C.M.T, N.M.C.U UCOTMRU FERWACOTAMO members testify that there is nothing more than the stability of Rwanda that they attribute their success.

“In the beginning the federation started with 3800 motorcycle riders who were working together as an

Ntaganzwa Celestin, president of FERWACOTAMO.

association, later when the system of operation became informal, the members decided to form the federation,” says Ntaganzwa Celestine, president of FERWACOTAMO (pictured insight). According to members of FERWACOTAMO,

unlike before, they now get enough resources to service their motor cycles, buys fuel and save the balance to take care of their families including; paying rent, buy food, clothing and cover their medical insurance, and other expenses.

The federation has registered a number of achievements including getting a remarkable increase in the income of its members. The motorcycle transport in Rwanda has become a very constructive career to be proud of by the undertakers.

Through its efforts to be more formal, the federation has managed to secure an own home for address that belongs to the member cooperatives. The premises have a well furnished office with space for meetings that is large enough for their office needs. In a way to move with the fast pace of development in the country, the federation is building a new home comprising of a 3 storied modern commercial building in Gisozi.

In a further development, the federation within its strategies is set to diversify its activities in business. Through the association named Twigire Bamotari where members have contributed money to a tune 40 million which they are going to invest into motor cycle selling business. “This is greatly going to change the lives of the members since their incomes will have to definitely increase more.” Celestine says.

Meanwhile, apart from generating high revenues, the motor taxi industry is also involved in social activities such as Umuganda (community work). It is believed that, when all the members of the association take part in the exercise, their work is valued at Rwf100 million every year. Besides, motor taxi operators also facilitate government institutions to spread their campaigns across the country.

Moreover, in order to fulfill its mission of motor tax professionalism in Rwanda, FERWACOTAMO set different development objectives. It embarked on members’ education, and continuous training, so as to improve efficiency. More so, to strengthen cooperative members to improve transport services, and assist cooperative in administration, and management.

Convention Centre, Rwanda's mega Complex

Friday, July 8 was a day to remember in history when residents of Kigali, but Rwandans in general, as the day the facility that is now billed one of the capital’s greatest landmarks, the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC), was inaugurated.

According to the Newtimes Publications, Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the complex, President Paul Kagame acknowledged that although the project had encountered multiple failures, the Rwandan spirit of perseverance had led to success.

The President also said that the building is a “true testimony of the Rwandan spirit and noted that we failed not once, not twice, may be three times, but on the fourth attempt we succeeded.”According to him True to Rwandan spirit, we failed many times but we have succeeded many more times than we have failed that’s why we keep learning from our failures and finally succeed.

The President also said that the final success of the project, was prompted by many factors, including the opportunity to

host the 27th African Union (AU) Summit, in Kigali.

Kagame thanked the AU Commission chairperson Dr Nkosazana DlaminiZuma, who was also in attendance, and the entire commission for trusting

“Rwanda’s spirit” and choosing Rwanda to host the AU Summit.

Kagame attributed the completion of the Kigali Convention Centre to the pressure of the opportunity to host the AU Summit.

Constructed on 12.6-hectare piece of land in Kimihurura Sector, Gasabo District, the Kigali Convention Centre is one of the largest in the region with a capacity to host more than 5,000 participants. Valued at over $300 million (about Rwf223 billion), the project is owned by a consortium of investors, including the Government that is represented by Prime Holdings, Rwanda Social Security Board, Crystal Ventures Limited and Rwanda Investment Group while the holding company is Ultimate Developers Limited.

The facility is currently operated by international hotel chain, Radisson Blu, under a brand name, Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Centre, Kigali. The facilities include the main auditorium that can host up to 2,500 people, plus several other meeting rooms, as well as an office park,the five-star Radisson Blu hotel with 292 rooms. These include 209 standard rooms, four accessible rooms, 68 business rooms, five junior suites, five diplomatic suites, and one elegant royal suite.

KIGALI MARRIOTT HOTEL

An upscale to Rwanda’s hospitality industry

Kigali city’s skyline was set to a major boost as Marriott hotel Kigali was officially opened and inaugurated on……….. The fivestar hotel was opened during a dedication ceremony held at the hotel located in the heart of the city of Kigali. The day’s event saw local and international guests celebrate the entry of the world’s largest hotel chain into the Rwandan market.

Marriott International became the largest hotel chain in the country at the conclusion of the deal that saw them acquire Starwood Hotels & Resorts to a tune of $13 billion. Starwood is the parent firm of Sheraton Hotels and a host of other brands lifted Marriott with over 30 hotel brands, 5,800 properties and 1.1 million rooms in more than 110 countries.

“The hotel chain’s interest in Rwanda was based on the country’s economic

transformation, and it’s positioning of information and communication technology,” says Arne Sorenson, President and Chief Executive of Marriott International.

The Kigali Marriott Hotel itself has 254 rooms and 10 conference halls.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rwanda

Development Board (RDB), Francis Gatare applauded proprietors and the management of the hotel for constructing such a remarkable hotel.

“Even big dreams and courage require financing. I know that you have had very strong backing of financials that have believed in your dream and continue to

believe in the contributions that you make to the economy of our country and especially to the landscape of this city,” Gatare said.

He also thanked the banks which supported the construction of the hotel and urged them to continue investing in different strategic investments which continue

to make the country’s economy grow and prosper.

He thanked the contractors like ROKO and others who also dedicated their time and expertise to the construction of the hotel.

“The winners of this entire project are Marriott for picking Rwanda as the

first place in sub-Sahara Africa to open Marriott hotel. You made a wise decision to partner with our country and government in establishing the first Marriott hotel to provide high quality services that this hotel has become synonymous with. We can only pledge you that as a country and government we will continue to be available to partner with you in providing the best service we can to the guests that come to our country,” Gatare said.

About the hotel’s role in closing the unemployment gap and job creation, Kigali Marriott Hotel is creating 500 jobs and has already partnered with Akilah Institute for Women to recruit and train Rwandan women for supervisory positions at the hotel. The establishment is timely in the lives of those who are to be employed at the hotel and an opportunity for them to make a difference. “As you take on the management service of the guests that visit the hotel they should be of quality. As employees and management of this remarkable hotel, I want you to remember that as a country and as the world we will be expecting nothing better than the best. This means that this is a unique opportunity for you to provide impeccable service that our country and especially the hospitality industry will always be known for,” he underscored.

Peter Mukulu, the Director of sales and sales at Marriott hotel Kigali said; “It’s been a long journey and we are glad that we have reached here.”

He thanked the government of Rwanda at all levels for the immense support given to them during the construction period.

“As you know this hotel hosted guests during the World Economic Forum which took place in Kigali earlier this year and through this process, the hotel management has received many acknowledgements from the guests not only for the services they were given but even for the property they stayed in and that’s what we are dedicating today,” Mukulu said.

Marriott first announced its entry into the Rwandan market in 2010. The hotel has 254 rooms and 10 conference halls.

Marriott Group is one of America’s largest hotel chains.

Gahanga Stadium to upscale

The construction of the long awaited state-of-the-art Gahanga Olympic Stadium will kick off this year, according to information from Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), who have been contracted by the Government to execute the multi-million dollar project.

Speaking to Times Sport at the RHA headquarters in Kacyiru, Eng. Didier Sagashya, who is also the Director General at the same institution confirmed that the Gahanga Olympic

stadium project is going to kick off and design concepts have are already developed.

Sagashya said, “We have developed the concepts and the next step is the feasibility study. Our plan is to make sure that the stadium together with the construction of the Rwanda International Exhibition Pack can fit on the same piece of land.”

“We are going to meet with the Ministry of Sports and Culture and other partners

so that we can discuss about the project designed concepts,” he explained.

The project will be funded by the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Sports and Culture, Private Sector Federation (PSF), who have already mobilized funds.

The Director of Sports in the Ministry of Sports and Culture, Emmanuel Bugingo admits, “We gave the responsibility to Rwanda Housing Authority to come up with the concepts and to find other partners before the project begins.”

upscale Rwanda’s Olympics

Meanwhile, Gerald Mukubu, the chief Advocacy officer at Private Sector Federation, explained that, “We are going to have a meeting with RHA to discuss the two designed concepts. The next step will be the feasibility study, which is likely to begin at the end of February or the beginning of March.”

Regarding the estimated total cost of the project, he said, “The estimated budget of the whole project is around US $120m with the rate of inflation taken

in consideration. US $60million will be spent on Olympic stadium while $50 million will be spent on the exhibition park.”

“The project will occupy 55 hectares of land and we were given ago ahead by the government so that the land can be used in the best way possible for the project to meet the international standard,” Mukubu stated.

In June 2014, the government of Rwanda shelved plans to construct the modern 40,000 sitter stadium project

by cancelling an agreement that had been signed with the Turkish construction company, Bibilax Ltd because faults were detected in the architectural designs.

When finalized, the Olympic stadium will not only serve as a football ground but it will also include of other facilities like the athletics track and field, along with hosting other sports facilities like the Olympic swimming pool and gymnastics facilities. The New Times

NYARUGENGE PENSION PLAZA