KIGALI - Kigali City budget for the financial year 2010/2011 has increased by 39.3 percent from Rwf 29.2bn in the last financial year to Rwf 40.7bn.

The budget, that is set to take effect July 1, was presented yesterday by Francois Rutishisha, the President of economic affairs standing committee of the Kigali City advisory council.

Development projects took the lion’s share of the budget (89.7 percent) of which over 145km of roads in the city will be constructed, renovated or expanded.

In an effort to fight poverty, Rwf 1.2bn was allocated to helping vulnerable groups start small income generating activities.

Economic development, which includes creation of employment opportunities and supporting cooperative societies, was allocated Rwf 1.8bn while people’s welfare was allocated Rwf 1.2bn.

The biggest portion of the budget (36.7 percent), will be financed by donors whereas the Central government and city revenues will cover 36.1 percent and 17.2 percent respectively.

The city will also acquire a loan of Rwf 4.1bn (10 percent) to construct its facilities.

The Local Government Minister, James Musoni who presided over the function appealed to all authorities to work tirelessly in the implementation of the budget.

"This budget was well prepared. It tackles the most important sectors which call for everyone’s commitment,” Musoni said.

The event also saw two new city councilors; Yvonne Banamwana and Theresa Nibagwire sworn-in to fill the vacant posts in Kigali city Advisory Council.

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