Residents of Rukara Sector in Kayonza district are calling for immediate repairs to two deteriorating roads, citing their critical role in local livelihoods and safety. The FAWE-Video road to the University of Rwanda, Rukara campus, and the Rukara-Buhabwa-Rwagitima road are at the heart of the community's frustration. These vital routes have become sources of economic and health challenges due to their worsening conditions. Clementine Uwineza, a tailor at Video Center, described the impact: “Dust covers everything we sew during dry seasons. We're worried about our health, and despite promises, the road remains dangerous.” ALSO READ: Japanese-do-nou-tech-transforms-rural-road-maintenance-in-kayonza Egide Niyokwizera, a motorcyclist, added: “These roads are destroying our vehicles. Constant mechanical repairs are draining our limited resources. Paving the road to the university is really critical.” During dry seasons, the roads are dusty and riddled with potholes, while rain turns them into muddy, slippery hazards. Residents struggle with higher transportation costs and safety risks. ALSO READ: Revamped-kagitumba-rusumo-road-credited-for-easing-movement-trade Annonciata Ayinkamiye, another resident, expressed frustration with the long wait for improvements: “Years of waiting have only increased transportation costs. A motorbike ride from Rukara to Buhabwa now costs Rwf2,000. Better roads could significantly lower these expenses.” John Bosco Nyemazi, Mayor of Kayonza District, acknowledged the concerns and outlined plans for action. “The FAWE-Video road is under assessment for repairs, and we’re collaborating with multiple institutions to secure resources,” he said. The mayor also noted a collaborative project with Gatsibo District to construct the 17-kilometer Rukara-Buhabwa-Rwagitima road, with 11.5 kilometers falling within Kayonza. The project awaits budget approval from the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA). Beyond transportation, these roads are essential for education and agriculture. The FAWE-Video road serves the University of Rwanda community, while the Rukara-Buhabwa-Rwagitima road supports dairy farmers' milk distribution. Under the Kayonza District Development Strategy for 2024-2029, authorities have outlined ambitious plans, including new tarmac roads, rehabilitation projects, and urban drainage systems to enhance resilience. Notably, the district has committed Rwf 19 billion to construct tarmac roads in Kayonza town and proposed rehabilitation of the Nyagakonji-Rubamba-Rubimba-Gitara feeder road to support agriculture and the economy. A standout initiative is the Kimodoka-Karubamba-Cyamusenyeri-Kageyo-Rwinkwavu green and beautification project, spanning 86.2 kilometers. Through these efforts, authorities aim to address the community's concerns and drive sustainable development across Kayonza District.
