How Kigali Became The Cleanest City in Africa
Discover the story behind the exceptional cleanliness of Rwanda's capital city.
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Everyone who visits Kigali is mesmerized by the exceptional levels of hygiene and cleanliness that the city displays. Was it the case in 28 years ago? Everyone would say no.
How did this happen? How come a developing country has no litter, plastic bag or garbage?
Kigali city roundabaoutRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
How the journey to cleanliness began
As a first step, in 2008, the city banned the use of plastic bags and packaging plastic materials by switching to bags made of biodegradable materials.
Kicukiro roadRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Important decisions
One year later in 2009, the city realized that it needed more roads, green spaces and reconfigured land use. So the city's master plan was implemented; of course some poorly built and serviced slums were demolished
However, this decision wasn't easy for the inhabitants.
House for people from KangondoRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Many families from the slums were relocated to new housing estates in Kigali with all necessary facilities. It was not easy to adapt to the changes, but the city and government at large made great efforts to help the expropriated families feel at ease.
Nyandungu Eco ParkRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Other initiatives
Apart from the Rwandan government's initiative of relocating factories to new special economic zones, new gardens, public places and parks were created. Groups of sweepers work in shifts to maintain roads, footpaths and public places. Bins are also placed everywhere.
Public work - UmugandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Community involvement
Keeping Kigali requires everyone's responsibility. Every last Saturday, in every part of the country, Rwandans meet to participate in community work Umuganda, a cultural activity where they clean areas of the city by picking up litter.
Community work - Umuganda
The work done varies depending on the area's core need. In towns, you will find people participate in street cleaning, grass cutting and bush trimming along roads, and by repairing public facilities. In villages, people repair roads and build houses for vulnerable people & more.
Kigali Convention Centre by Office of the Government SpokespersonRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
The future of cleanliness
If there is a will, there is a way; any city may become clean, it is a matter of planning and determination. Kigali takes pride in its exemplary cleanliness.
Content development & Curatorial layout : Chantal Umuhoza
Photography: Kigali city & OGS
