Traders relocate as developers upgrade city structures

Kigali City skyline sets to change shape in few years to come as investors embark on campaign to construct state-of-the art commercial complexes and hotels within the Central Business District.For the last few years, a couple of new structures have been built in downtown Kigali among others, Kigali City Tower, Grand Pension Plaza, and the City of Kigali offices. As a result, several businesses have paid teh price, increasingly paving way for development.The latest to close shop is the property that houses popular hangouts Downtown Pizzeria and the nearby La Classe, to pave way for the construction of a Rwf2.5 billion commercial complex. The multiple-storied structure will be located opposite the Commercial Bank of Rwanda’s (BCR) main branch in the city centre, adjacent to City of Kigali offices.“The complex will be composed of two wings. The first wing will have five floors and will be reserved for shopping malls and office space while the second with seven floors, will hold executive apartments, modern restaurants and commercial offices,” said Alain Mutesi Maniraguha, the chairman, Board of the Directors, NORD SUD real estate, the project developers.He added: “commercial area and office space will be offered to the public for renting or buying at affordable prices. This is a very strategically located property.”Maniraguha, who also owns the land, said that the tenants were given early notice to vacate the place.The projects still underway include Kigali Convention Centre (KCC) in Kimihurura, estimated to cost US$300 million, Acacia Plaza ($19 million), to be located at former Rwanda Tourism Board offices (ORTPN) and Chic Complex worth Rwf32 billion to be constructed at ETO-Muhima.Others include Cocomanya Berwa (Rwf30 billion) in Nyabugogo, Executive Apartments to cost Rwf4.1 billion, Kigali Heights ($12 million), M-Shopping (Rwf22.2 billion), Marriott training centre and apartment at $14 million and Kigali City Hall ( $7.5 million).

National

Traders relocate as developers upgrade city structures