The announcement by the Rwandan government to build a new landfill to replace the problematic Nduba site located in Gasabo district is a welcome step. Residents have borne the brunt of unpleasant odors and potential health hazards for far too long.

This new multi-million dollar facility, which will be built by the country’s water and sanitation utility agency, WASAC, is designed to be a modern and efficient waste management solution for city dwellers. It signifies a positive shift towards a cleaner and healthier Kigali.

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However, building a new landfill is just one piece of the puzzle. To ensure its long-term success and prevent future Nduba-like situations, we must address the root cause of overflowing landfills: waste sorting at the source.

It is important to recall that Nduba was just opened a few years back after the landfill in Nyanza, Kicukiro district could no longer serve the purpose for the same reason as the one in Nduba currently.

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Educating residents, especially those in Kigali, on proper waste segregation is crucial. By separating organic waste, recyclables, and non-biodegradables in our homes, we significantly reduce the burden placed on landfills. Imagine – a significant portion of Kigali’s waste could be composted, recycled, or even converted into energy, leaving the new landfill with only a fraction of the current load.

Rwanda has a strong track record of environmental leadership. The nationwide ban on plastic bags stands as a testament to this commitment and it was by all means something that could have been achieved without the full backing of the population.

With similar dedication, waste sorting can become a cultural norm within Rwandan households. Educational campaigns, community initiatives, and even incorporating waste segregation into school curriculums can all play a role in fostering this new habit.

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The new landfill represents progress, but true success lies in preventing it from replicating Nduba’s issues or those of Nyanza before that.

Let’s embrace this opportunity to not just replace a landfill, but to build a culture of responsible waste management in Kigali, one sorted bin at a time.