It was reported in the news media yesterday, that the population of Kigali City had overshot projections. The city vice Mayor was quoted as saying that the estimate had been that by 2015, the city would have a population of 450,000, but it now stands at over a million.

The implication is that the unplanned growth is an extra burden on the infrastructure of the city.

Indeed the deputy Mayor made it clear, that the rapid population increase, has led to a shortage of housing facilities. The government has taken bold steps and resettled many in the city who had been living in substandard housing.

It is imperative that infrastructure development, such as housing, is not left to the government alone, but private developers should seize the opportunity and invest in affordable housing.

The Kigali City Master plan that was unveiled recently, will go a long way in facilitating the development of a properly planned city, with an infrastructure that responds to the needs of the urban population.

People should also be encouraged to explore opportunities in other urban centres in the country. The implications of rural-urban migration are serious enough to warrant the attention of all concerned.

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