The government’s plan to expand the Giporoso–Masaka road marks an important step in addressing Kigali’s growing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility. As the city continues to expand eastward, this 10-kilometre stretch - one of the busiest corridors linking the airport, industrial area, and fast-growing suburbs - has long been due for an upgrade. The expansion from two to four lanes and the construction of a flyover will ease traffic flow, shorten travel times, and enhance connectivity to key economic zones. With over Rwf86 billion earmarked for the entire project, and Rwf16 billion allocated for expropriation alone, this is clearly a high-stakes infrastructure investment. It reflects the government’s commitment to building a modern transport network that supports economic growth and aligns with Kigali’s vision of becoming a smart, accessible city. However, while the project’s goals are commendable, its implementation demands transparency, fairness, and clear communication, particularly regarding those whose properties and businesses lie in the path of expansion. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, at least 530 properties will be affected, including hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, and small enterprises that employ and serve hundreds of residents. Yet, there remains a worrying level of uncertainty among property owners. Some, like operators of Hilltop Hotel, Blue Gear Machinery, and Come Again Bar, have seen parts of their premises marked or demolished without publicly available timelines or details on compensation. Others, such as Minimex, Legacy Clinics, and operators near Nyandungu Eco-Park, remain unsure whether they will be affected at all. This lack of clarity risks creating confusion, speculation, and possible disputes, issues that can be avoided through proactive engagement and openness. The Ministry of Infrastructure and the City of Kigali must therefore ensure that every affected individual or business is promptly informed and fairly compensated. Beyond simply publishing figures, they must publicly disclose the list of affected properties, outline how valuations were done, and set clear timelines for compensation and demolition. Transparency in this process not only builds trust but also upholds the integrity of public infrastructure projects. Moreover, businesses and residents need adequate time to prepare for relocation. Many establishments along the route — hotels, restaurants, garages, petrol stations — have invested heavily in those locations. Relocation, even when compensated, requires logistical planning, new leases, and customer communication. Announcing the construction schedule well in advance would allow those affected to make informed decisions and minimize disruption to livelihoods. In the long run, the Giporoso–Masaka road expansion will likely bring relief to commuters and boost the city’s image as a modern capital. But the success of this project must not only be measured by smoother traffic, it should also be judged by how fairly and transparently it treats the people and businesses that stand in its way.
