Residents of Ngororero and Rutsiro districts say the planned construction of the Kazabe–Rutsiro road will be a major turning point in improving transport, trade, and access to essential services in the region.
The 55.3-kilometer road, to be developed by the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB), will link the sectors of Ngororero, Kayego, Kavumu, and Sovu in Ngororero District with communities in Rutsiro District.
For many years, residents have struggled with poor roads that become nearly impassable during the rainy season. Mud, erosion, and damaged paths routinely prevent vehicles from reaching villages, leaving farmers unable to transport potatoes, charcoal, and other produce to markets on time. Access to hospitals, schools, and administrative services is also severely disrupted.
Although construction has not yet officially begun, communities and leaders familiar with the project say the road will be critical in boosting trade between the two districts, promoting tourism, and easing the movement of people and goods.
Annoncé Mukarukundo, a resident of Kavumu Sector, said the long-awaited project brings new hope.
“When vehicles cannot reach our homes, even the market abandons us,” she said. “This new road will open opportunities. We will access fair markets for our produce, and our children will go to school without hardship.”
Ngororero District Mayor, Christophe Nkusi, told ICK News that the Kazabe–Rutsiro road is one of the district’s top priorities for infrastructure development.
“This road will finally connect isolated communities to markets, schools, and health services. It is a key driver of development for our district,” he said.
He emphasized that the new road will also help solve transport challenges caused by severe weather.
“Dirt roads become muddy and unusable in the rainy season. This new road will be durable and weather-resistant, reducing produce losses and transport delays,” Nkusi explained.
He added that the project is expected to attract investors, promote agro-processing, improve access to tourism sites, and ease the work of ambulances, teachers, and service providers who struggle to reach remote areas.
“We ask residents to be patient and supportive. This project is coming, and its benefits will last for generations,” he said.
District leaders say the Kazabe–Rutsiro road fits into broader development plans aimed at transforming the Western Province. Once completed, the road is expected to facilitate trade between Ngororero and Rutsiro, open new investment opportunities, upport agriculture and market accessibility, increase tourism activities, and improve delivery of health and education services.
Residents and leaders alike believe the new road will become a backbone of economic growth and social transformation in the region. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
Author: Beatha Nyiramafaranga