Today, three major roads — Rukomo–Nyagatare (73 km), Huye–Kitabi (53 km), and Rubengera–Gisiza (25 km) — were officially inaugurated. The projects were funded by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), with a total investment of over 200 billion Rwandan francs.
The Nyagatare–Rukomo road, stretching 73 kilometers and costing more than 53 billion francs, is expected to greatly reduce both travel time and transport costs between Nyagatare and Kigali. Previously, travelers had to go through Kayonza, a journey that took five to six hours. Now, using the new Gicumbi (Rukomo) route takes only about three hours or less, and is cheaper — public transport fares dropped from 4,950 Frw via Kayonza to 3,900 Frw via Gicumbi.
In his remarks at the inauguration, State Minister in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Eng. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, emphasized that roads are a vital link connecting people, trade, and markets, calling them a foundation for national development.
“When a country builds good roads, it opens doors for investment, prevents losses caused by poor infrastructure, and strengthens trade between regions. What we ask of citizens is to make the most of these facilities instead of just admiring them,” he said.
He added that the new roads will facilitate trade, agriculture, and livestock farming, by ensuring farmers’ produce reaches markets faster and more easily, thereby promoting business partnerships and investment opportunities.
A resident, Nyirabagenzi Donatha from Nyagatare Sector, expressed gratitude:
“We used to spend many hours traveling to Kigali through Kayonza. Now, using the Gicumbi route, it only takes about three hours! And transport fares are lower — it’s a big benefit for ordinary people.”
Minister Uwihanganye thanked Rwanda’s development partners, especially BADEA, for supporting infrastructure growth, reaffirming the government’s commitment to continue investing in projects that improve citizens’ livelihoods and drive national development.
