The City of Kigali has completed a transformative three-year project, which focuses on large-scale mapping and urban mobility. Launched in September 2021, the initiative has resulted in the creation of 62 high-resolution topographic maps at scales of 1/10,000 for the suburbs, 175 maps at 1/2,500 for the city area, and detailed 1/1,000 maps for road networks. These scales mean that one unit on the map represents 10,000, 2,500, or 1,000 units on the ground, respectively, providing enhanced detail for urban planning. The National Land Authority (NLA) has highlighted that these topographic maps, or topo maps, offer a detailed and accurate portrayal of Kigali's terrain and features, significantly enhancing urban planning and infrastructure development. ALSO READ: Six things to know about Kigali urban transport improvement project In an interview with The New Times, Alexis Rutagengwa, Head of the Land Use Management and Mapping Department at the NLA, discussed the project's impact. He noted that these high-resolution topographic maps, along with a 3D city model, provide a virtual representation of Kigali. They aid in better visualization and analysis for urban planning and development. Stakeholders can now simulate and assess various urban scenarios effectively, which is pivotal for providing accurate data for urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental management, Rutagengwa said. The project also introduced the Topomaps Geoportal, an online platform that allows stakeholders easy access to digital maps and spatial data. This tool enhances data-driven decision-making across various sectors. Rutagengwa added, This platform empowers stakeholders by offering comprehensive spatial data, thereby enhancing informed decision-making. ALSO READ: A new chapter in Rwanda's public transport Rutagengwa emphasized the evolution of mapping in Kigali, stating, Following updates in 1987, 2011, and 2020, these new topographic maps are highly accurate, crucial for facilitating improved urban planning and infrastructure development. The initiative also developed the Kigali Road Asset Management System (K-RAMS), a pilot web-based platform implemented over a 100 km road network. K-RAMS creates a digital inventory of Kigali's road network, including roads, bridges, and drainage systems, offering real-time data for maintenance and planning. K-RAMS is a vital tool for efficient road management, Rutagengwa said. By providing a detailed digital inventory of the city's road assets and real-time data on road conditions, it enables prompt maintenance actions and informed planning for future road infrastructure projects. ALSO READ: 10 things to know about Green City Kigali project Emmanuel Nyirinkindi, the Executive Secretary and Registrar at the Rwanda Institute of Architects, noted the broader implications of these maps. He said the topographic maps significantly support urban mobility, urban planning, and infrastructure development by providing detailed and accurate information about the terrain, elevation, and existing features of a city. They allow planners to identify optimal locations for roads, public transportation routes, buildings, and other infrastructure while considering factors like slopes, flood-prone areas, and natural barriers, ultimately leading to more efficient and sustainable urban development. ALSO READ: What commuters make of Kigali's scheduled public transport system This project's deliverables not only enhance the city's current infrastructure and services but also pave the way for future advancements. With continued collaboration, investment, and capacity building, Kigali is well-positioned to serve as a model for other cities in Rwanda and beyond, demonstrating the transformative power of innovative urban planning and management, Nyirinkindi concluded. Rutagengwa also shared a vision to extend these innovations to other Rwandan cities, promoting nationwide sustainable urban development. He stressed the importance of building local companies and technical expertise to ensure long-term sustainability and self-reliance. ALSO READ: Can Kigali Master Plan Inc. drive Kigali's 2050 vision? The NLA urged stakeholders to make use of these topographic maps and other available resources for more effective planning, given the tools' accuracy and comprehensiveness. They acknowledged challenges like limited local expertise and the need for specialized software, which were overcome through strategic planning and collaboration. This project sets a robust foundation for Kigali's future urban development, promising a model of efficiency and sustainability for urban planning in Rwanda and potentially beyond.
