A historic dam believed to have been constructed under the reign of King Mutara III Rudahigwa in the aftermath of the devastating 1943–44 Ruzagayura famine has been integrated into Nyanza District’s new land use master plan, The New Times has learnt. ALSO READ: Rwf2.8 billion project set to boost Nyanza cultural tourism ambitions Nyamagana Dam, originally part of an irrigation initiative to prevent future famines, also supports fish farming. The dam, alongside Bishya Dam, is now being considered for eco-tourism development and cultural heritage conservation. Alexis Rutagengwa, Head of Land Use Management and Mapping at the National Land Authority (NLA), told The New Times that the district’s new master plan builds on Nyanza’s rich cultural heritage and unique historical sites to promote sustainable eco-tourism, particularly around the two dams. Key projects in the revised plan include the development of Nyanza as a cultural tourism hub, featuring integrated cultural experiences and hospitality infrastructure—eco-friendly trails linking heritage and natural attractions, and the creation of cultural waterways and a wellness circuit centered on Bishya and Nyamagana dams. Located in the Southern Province, Nyanza recently celebrated 125 years since its establishment by King Yuhi V Musinga. It later became home to Kings Mutara III Rudahigwa and Kigeli V Ndahindurwa, further solidifying its status as Rwanda’s cradle of cultural enlightenment. ALSO READ: Travel: The King’s Royal Palace in Nyanza Despite its historical significance, Nyanza’s infrastructure development has progressed slowly. However, authorities are now working to mobilise resources for transformative projects, including a proposed Rwf 4.5 billion Cultural Village spearheaded by the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) and the district leadership. The village is expected to boost tourism revenue and preserve Rwandan heritage. The expansion of the iconic King’s Palace (Urukari)—an architectural marvel made from traditional materials and once the seat of the monarchy—is also on the agenda. The 19th-century palace now serves as a museum and is home to long-horned royal cows known as Inyambo, a traditional symbol of prestige. Adjacent to it stands the 1931 modern palace that served as King Rudahigwa’s residence until his death in 1959. It now showcases Rwanda’s history dating back to the 15th century. On the nearby Mwima hill lies the royal mausoleum where King Rudahigwa, Queen Rosalie Gicanda, and King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa are buried, further enhancing the district’s cultural tourism potential. Currently, Nyanza attracts over 70,000 visitors annually, and officials believe these developments could significantly increase that number. Other key projects outlined in the master plan include: Integrated road and public transport infrastructure upgrades, A flagship public utility infrastructure project, The creation of an agro-processing and innovation zone, Development of climate-smart irrigated agriculture and land restoration, Promotion of home-based livestock farming and a youth empowerment and sports development hub, including a new stadium The government also plans to build a 20,000-seater Olympic-standard stadium at a cost of Rwf 145 billion. The facility will occupy 18 hectares in Rwabicumu Sector. According to 2022 figures, Nyanza District had a population of 323,719. This is projected to grow to 503,937 by 2035 and 729,500 by 2050. Aligned with Rwanda’s national urbanization strategy—which targets 70% of the population living in urban areas by 2050, Nyanza aims to have 53% of its residents living in urban settings by 2035, rising to 70% by mid-century. Conversely, the rural population is expected to decline to 47% by 2035 and 30% by 2050.
