Rwanda has unveiled plans to modernise the drainage system of its capital city, Kigali.

The Rwanda government says in a statement that a significant rise in population and the cropping up of new buildings are exerting pressure on the existing infrastructure, hence the need for a modern drainage system.

It is now inviting proposals from companies interested in undertaking a feasibility study into the proposed project.
The study will be carried out in collaboration with the municipality of Kigali and will involve the design, environment impact and cost analysis of the project.
“The city’s objective is to have a well-constructed and well- maintained system that would ensure the safety of dwellers and property,” says the statement.
The drainage system in Kigali totals 102 800 km, comprising 96 193 km that has yet to be constructed, while the remainder needs upgrading.
Established in the 1900s as a small colonial outpost supposed to be inhabited by about 300 000 people, Kigali has a population almost one-million people.
Despite the rapid growth in population and new developments, Kigali has never had any clear master plan to reorganise the planning and settlement since Rwanda attained independence.

However, plans to install a central sewerage treatment plant have been hampered by a lack of funds.

The central sewerage plant, whose detailed physical master plan is already complete, is expected to cost $70-million.

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