Urban Waste Management in Post-Genocide Rwanda: An Empirical Survey of the City of Kigali

Abstract

African countries are urbanizing rapidly, presenting complex challenges for urban waste management. A compelling nexus between urbanization and waste management can be found in Kigali, the capital and largest city in Rwanda. Since its founding in 1907, the city of Kigali has witnessed steady growth in terms of both population and geographical boundaries. Using mainly qualitative methods, this study provides an empirical survey of waste management practices in post-genocide Rwanda with an emphasis on the city of Kigali, the capital. The study analyzed current regulatory arrangements and legislative instruments, approaches to public cleaning, and minimization, collection, and final disposal of wastes. We found Kigali to be an exceptionally clean city with carefully organized and well-coordinated waste management service delivery systems in place. Conversely, the absence of effective minimization strategies, coupled with a lack of safe treatment and disposal facilities, militate against sustainable waste management.