(Leaders, partners and stakeholders during KUTI&BRIDEP launch)

Today March 24, 2025, the Government of Rwanda, represented by the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), in partnership with the African Development Bank Group, officially launched two major projects: The Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project (KUTI) and the Burundi-Rwanda Integrated Development Project (BRIDEP).

The launch ceremony was officiated by Mr. Fidèle ABIMANA, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA), and the event was attended by key government officials, development partners, and stakeholders in the transport sector.

(Mr. Fidele ABIMANA, the Permanent Secretary/ MININFRA making remarks during KUTI&BRIDEP projects)

In his opening remarks, the PS emphasized the importance of these projects in shaping Rwanda's transport sector: "The KUTI and BRIDEP projects are a perfect reflection of Rwanda’s strategic vision for the transport sector. They align closely with the goals outlined in our National Strategy for Transformation II (NST2) and our transport sector policies," he stated.

The Permanent Secretary highlighted that these initiatives are crucial for achieving Rwanda’s broader objective of enhancing connectivity between urban and rural areas, fostering economic growth, and improving the quality of life for all Rwandans.

"It is through such projects that we are able to create a transport network that supports economic activities, attracts investment, and improves the overall well-being of all Rwandans," he added.

The Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project (KUTI) is a flagship initiative by the Government of Rwanda aimed at achieving long-term improvements in urban mobility across the City of Kigali. The project targets the upgrading of key transport infrastructures, including the improvement of selected junctions with provisions for non-motorized transport (NMT) facilities. The initial phase of the project will focus on three critical junctions: Chez Lando, Gishushu, and Kicukiro/Sonatubes.

The Burundi-Rwanda Integrated Development Project (BRIDEP) aims to bolster regional integration and economic development through the development of key transport and trade facilitation infrastructure between Rwanda and Burundi. BRIDEP is aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation II (NST2).

Mrs. Aissa Touré Sarr, African Development Bank’s Country Manager/Rwanda, also remarked on the significance of the two projects: “The Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project and the Burundi-Rwanda Integrated Development Project are transformative initiatives that align with the African Development Bank’s commitment to promoting regional integration and sustainable urban development. These projects will not only improve transport efficiency and connectivity but also contribute to economic growth and job creation.”

Both the KUTI and BRIDEP projects are co-financed by the Government of Rwanda and the African Development Bank (AfDB), demonstrating a strong partnership aimed at achieving Rwanda’s infrastructure development ambitions.

Through strategic investments like KUTI and BRIDEP, Rwanda reaffirms its commitment to sustainable urbanization, regional integration, and inclusive economic growth, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future for all Rwandans.