Rwanda Housing Authority Calls for Strict Compliance with Building Regulations to Curb Illegal Constructions

The Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) has called for stronger compliance with building regulations across the country, warning that illegal construction continues to undermine urban planning, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Janvier MUHIRE, Building Regulations Specialist at the RHA, said that every construction activity in Rwanda must comply with legal standards and obtain a building permit as required by national laws. He pointed out that unregulated developments have become a major challenge in both urban and rural areas, leading to unsafe housing and disorganized settlements.

“Illegal construction is not just a violation of the law; it endangers lives, damages the environment, and undermines national planning efforts,” Muhire said. “A safe home starts with a legal permit and professional supervision.”

According to RHA, illegal or informal settlements are typically characterized by poor infrastructure, lack of legal land ownership, and construction using substandard materials. Many are located in high-risk areas such as wetlands, riverbanks, or steep slopes, exposing residents to floods, fires, and landslides.

These unplanned developments not only compromise public safety but also weaken the image of Rwandan cities as orderly and well-managed. Muhire warned that cities like Kigali could lose their “planned city” reputation if illegal construction is not addressed decisively.

“Urban disorder and unsafe buildings erode the value of surrounding properties and discourage investment,” he said. “We must protect the vision of organized cities and sustainable villages that align with Vision 2050.”

Under Ministerial Order No. 02/Cab.M/019 of 15/04/2019, RHA classifies buildings into six categories, defining which require official permits. Except for low-risk structures such as temporary shelters or small non-storeyed buildings, all other construction projects must be approved by relevant authorities, including the City of Kigali or respective districts.

MUHIRE notes that enforcement of these standards will not only promote safety and environmental protection but also support long-term economic growth through planned urbanization.

Urbanization Policy Supports Regulated Growth

The RHA’s stance complements the revised National Urbanization Policy (NUP), adopted by Cabinet in February 2025, which aims to manage Rwanda’s fast-growing urban population and promote sustainable city development.

Servile UWAYEZU, Urbanization and Housing Economist at the Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA), said the revised NUP seeks to transform Rwanda’s urban landscape by improving land-use efficiency, housing quality, and economic productivity.

Rwanda’s urbanization rate, which stood at 27.9 percent in 2022, is projected to reach 52.7 percent by 2035 and approximately 70 percent by 2050, representing around 18.5 million people living in urban areas.

“Rapid urbanization must go hand in hand with effective land use and compliance with construction standards,” UWAYEZU said. “The revised NUP emphasizes densification, liveability, coordination, and economic growth as key pillars for sustainable city development.”

The policy promotes the creation of compact, inclusive, and resilient cities through coordinated efforts among public institutions, the private sector, and civil society. MININFRA oversees policy direction, while RHA ensures technical compliance and the enforcement of construction standards.

Building the Future on Strong Foundations

Both RHA and MININFRA stress that achieving Rwanda’s urbanization goals requires strict respect for building laws and active prevention of illegal construction. Muhire summarized that preventing unsafe or unplanned housing is not only about law enforcement but also about protecting lives and investments.

“Awareness, enforcement, and responsibility are the foundations of a safer and more sustainable built environment,” he said.

As Rwanda continues its rapid transformation, the message from the Rwanda Housing Authority is clear: legal construction builds a safer and stronger future for all.