An ongoing demolition exercise of buildings located in high-risk zones and swamps in some parts of Kigali could not just have gone quietly. For those who are always looking for an opportunity to drag Rwanda in the mud, it was Godsent.

There is nothing extraordinary about the demolitions apart that they were carried out in one huge scoop that caught many by surprise apart from the victims of the demolitions.

The structures had been condemned years ago and owners ordered to relocate; some did others did not. The latter are the ones making noise to seek public sympathy, but the truth is that they knew that they could be moved any time.

This year’s rains were heavier than usual that in many parts of the country landslides have been reported and houses washed away, especially those located in wetlands. So relocating the people was the government’s priority.

But the whole exercise took off on a wrong footing.

The poor communication strategy by city authorities made them sound like they were heartless and had no feelings for the residents in the condemned buildings. They failed to explain early enough that the people had received ample warning but refused to heed it.

The demolition issue should serve as a warning that anything that touches on the welfare of people should be handled carefully. It could have been well-intentioned, but when it is accompanied by a poor communication strategy – like in this case – the City is left holding the loose ends. Its only option is damage control, but the damage has already been done.

Clear communication is very important, and like Kigali City learned the hard way, it is worth investing in.