MINISTERIAL ORDER N° 010/25/10/TC OF 28/07/2025 ESTABLISHING LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN OF RUBAVU DISTRICT

Ingingo ya mbere: Ishyirwaho Article One: Establishment Article premier: Établissement Ingingo ya mbere: Ishyirwaho Article One: Establishment Article premier: Établissement Hashyizweho cy’imikoreshereze by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu. igishushanyo mbonera n’imitunganyirize The land use and development master plan of Rubavu District is established. Il est établit le schéma directeur d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu. Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20253

Ingingo ya 2: Ibigize igishushanyo mbonera Article 2: Composition Article 2: Composition Ingingo ya 2: Ibigize igishushanyo mbonera Article 2: Composition Article 2 : Composition Igishushanyo mbonera cy’imikoreshereze n’imitunganyirize by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu, kigizwe n’ibi bikurikira: The District land use and development master plan of Rubavu District is composed of the following: Le et schéma directeur d’utilisation d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu est composé de ce qui suit: (a) raporo rusange mbonera n’imitunganyirize cy’Akarere; y’igishushanyo cy’imikoreshereze y’ubutaka (a) the main report of the District land use and development master plan; (a) le rapport général du schéma directeur d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District; (b) amakuru ndangahantu y’igishushanyo (b) zoning plan; (b) le plan de zonage; mbonera; (c) amabwiriza agenga ishyirwa mu (c) zoning regulations. (c) le règlement de zonage. bikorwa ryacyo.

Ingingo ya 3: Itangazwa Article 3: Publication Article 3: Publication Ingingo ya 3: Itangazwa Article 3: Publication Article 3: Publication (1) Raporo rusange y’igishushanyo cy’imikoreshereze mbonera n’imitunganyirize y’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu iri ku mugereka w’iri teka. (1) The main report of the land use and development master plan of Rubavu District is annexed to this Order. (1) Le rapport général du d’utilisation schéma directeur et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu est annexé au présent arrêté. (2) Amakuru ndangahantu y’igishushanyo ka Rubavu cy’Akarere mbonera n’amabwiriza agenga ishyirwa mu bikorwa ryacyo bitangazwa ku rubuga rwagenwe rw’ikoranabuhanga imicungire n’urwego rufite (2) The and zoning plan zoning land use and the regulations of development master plan of Rubavu District are published on the website designated by the organ in charge of land use management. du schéma (2) Le plan de zonage et le règlement de directeur zonage d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu sont publiés sur le site web désigné par l’organe ayant la ses gestion l’utilisation et terres dans des Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20254 n’imikoreshereze nshingano. by’ubutaka mu

Ingingo ya 4: Igihe igishushanyo mbonera kimara Article 4: Period of validity Article 4: Période de validité Ingingo ya 4: Igihe igishushanyo mbonera kimara Igishushanyo mbonera cy’imikoreshereze n’imitunganyirize by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu gikurikizwa kugeza mu 2050. attributions. Article 4: Period of validity Article 4: Période de validité The land use and development master plan of Rubavu District is implemented until 2050. Le et schéma directeur d’utilisation d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu est mis en œuvre jusqu’en 2050.

Ingingo ya 5: Ivugururwa Article 5: Revision Article 5: Révision Ingingo ya 5: Ivugururwa Article 5: Revision Article 5: Révision (1) Igishushanyo mbonera cy’imikoreshereze n’imitunganyirize by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu gishobora kuvugururwa cyose nyuma y’imyaka icumi cyangwa ikindi gihe bibaye ngombwa uhereye ku munsi gishyiriweho. (2) Ivugururwa ry’igishushanyo mbonera cy’imikoreshereze n’imitunganyirize by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu rishobora kandi gukorwa rireba agace ngombwa gato igihe bitabangamiye ry’utundi duce kandi hakurikijwe amategeko abigenga. bibaye iterambere (1) The land use and development master plan of Rubavu District may be comprehensively reviewed after ten considered years necessary its establishment. or whenever the date of from (2) The revision of land use and development master plan of Rubavu District may also be done on a specific area, when considered necessary, the without development of other in accordance with relevant laws. compromising areas (1) Le schéma directeur d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu peut être entièrement révisé après dix ans ou chaque fois que cela est jugé nécessaire à partir du jour de son établissement. (2) La révision du schéma directeur d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu peut également être effectuée sur une zone spécifique, en cas de besoin, sans compromettre le développement des la autres zones conformément à législation en la matière.

Ingingo ya 6: Ingingo y’ururimi Article 6: Language provision Article 6: Disposition linguistique Ingingo ya 6: Ingingo y’ururimi Article 6: Language provision Article 6: Disposition linguistique Iri teka ryateguwe mu rurimi rw’Ikinyarwanda. This Order was drafted in Ikinyarwanda. Le présent Ikinyarwanda. arrêté a été rédigé en Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20255

Ingingo ya 7: Gutangira gukurikizwa Article 7: Entry into force Article 7: Entrée en vigueur Umugereka: cy’imikoreshereze by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu Igishushanyo mbonera n’imitunganyirize Annex: Land use and development master plan of Rubavu District Annexe: Schéma directeur d’utilisation et d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20252 ITEKA RYA MINISITIRI N° 010/25/10/TC RYO KU WA 28/07/2025 RISHYIRAHO IGISHUSHANYO MBONERA CY’IMIKORESHEREZE N’IMITUNGANYIRIZE BY’UBUTAKA CY’AKARERE KA RUBAVU MINISTERIAL ORDER N° 010/25/10/TC OF 28/07/2025 ESTABLISHING LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN OF RUBAVU DISTRICT MINISTÉRIEL DU 010/25/10/TC ARRÊTÉ 28/07/2025 N° ÉTABLISSANT SCHEMA DIRECTEUR D’UTILISATION ET D’AMÉNAGEMENT DES TERRES DU DISTRICT DE RUBAVU LE Minisitiri w’Imari n’Igenamigambi; The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning; Le Ministre des Finances et de Planification Économique; la Ashingiye ku Itegeko Nshinga rya Repubulika y’u Rwanda; Pursuant to the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda; Vu la Constitution de la République du Rwanda; Ashingiye ku Itegeko n° 27/2021 ryo ku wa 10/06/2021 rigenga ubutaka, cyane cyane mu ngingo yaryo ya 59; kemezwa n’Inama Njyanama Bimaze y’Akarere ka Rubavu yateranye ku wa 30/06/2023; Pursuant to Law no 27/2021 of 10/06/2021 governing land, especially in Article 59; Vu la Loi nº 27/2021 du 10/06/2021 portant régime foncier, spécialement en son article 59; After approval by the Council of Rubavu District, in its meeting of 30/06/2023; Après adoption par le Conseil du District de Rubavu, en sa réunion du 30/06/2023; Inama y’Abaminisitiri yateranye ku wa 22/05/2024 imaze kubisuzuma no kubyemeza; After consideration and approval by the Cabinet, in its meeting of 22/05/2024; Après examen et adoption par le Conseil des Ministres, en sa séance du 22/05/2024; ATEGETSE: ORDERS: ARRÊTE: Ingingo ya 7: Gutangira gukurikizwa Article 7: Entry into force Article 7: Entrée en vigueur teka ritangira gukurikizwa ku munsi Iri ritangarijweho mu Igazeti ya Leta ya Repubulika y’u Rwanda. Agaciro karyo gahera ku wa 30/06/2023. This Order comes into force on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Rwanda. It takes effect as of 30/06/2023. Le présent arrêté entre en vigueur le jour de sa publication au Journal Officiel de la République du Rwanda. Il prend ses effets à partir du 30/06/2023. Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20256 Kigali, 28/07/2025 (sé) MURANGWA Yusuf Minisitiri w’Imari n’Igenamigambi Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Ministre des Finances et de la Planification Économique Bibonywe kandi bishyizweho Ikirango cya Repubulika: Seen and sealed with the Seal of the Republic: Vu et scellé du Sceau de la République: (sé) Dr UGIRASHEBUJA Emmanuel Minisitiri w’Ubutabera akaba n’Intumwa Nkuru ya Leta Minister of Justice and Attorney General Ministre de la Justice et Garde des Sceaux Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20257 28/07/2025 W’ITEKA UMUGEREKA RYA MINISITIRI N° 010/25/10/TC RYO KU RISHYIRAHO WA MBONERA IGISHUSHANYO CY’IMIKORESHEREZE N’IMITUNGANYIRIZE BY’UBUTAKA CY’AKARERE KA RUBAVU 010/25/10/TC OF ANNEX TO MINISTERIAL ORDER N° 28/07/2025 ESTABLISHING LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT MASTER PLAN OF RUBAVU DISTRICT 010/25/10/TC ANNEXE À L’ARRÊTÉ MINISTÉRIEL N° 28/07/2025 ÉTABLISSANT LE SCHÉMA DIRECTEUR D’UTILISATION ET D’AMÉNAGEMENT DES TERRES DU DISTRICT DE RUBAVU DU IGISHUSHANYO CY’IMIKORESHEREZE N’IMITUNGANYIRIZE BY’UBUTAKA CY’AKARERE KA RUBAVU MBONERA LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF RUBAVU MASTER DISTRICT SCHÉMA DIRECTEUR D’UTILISATION ET D’AMÉNAGEMENT DES TERRES DU DISTRICT DE RUBAVU Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20258 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 i Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/20259 Report Title Project title Owner Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023 – 2050 Rubavu District Land Use Plan Report Rubavu District District Council 30th June, 2023 Approval Cabinet’s Approval 22nd May, 2024 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 i Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202510 1. TABLE OF CONTENTS List of Figures .............................................................................................................................. v List of Tables .............................................................................................................................. vi List of Maps ............................................................................................................................... viii List of Acronyms ......................................................................................................................... ix EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... xi 1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 1 1.1 Background of District Land Use Plan (DLUP) ..................................................................................... 1 1.2 1.2.1 1.2.2 1.3 1.3.1 1.3.2 1.3.3 1.3.4 1.3.5 1.3.6 1.3.7 1.3.8 2. 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 3. 3.1 3.2 Objective and Scope ..................................................................................................................... 3 Objective ............................................................................................................................................ 3 Scope ................................................................................................................................................. 4 Rubavu District Description .......................................................................................................... 5 Geographical location of Rubavu District ................................................................................................ 5 Hydrography and Water Resources ........................................................................................................ 6 Soil and Erosion .................................................................................................................................. 8 Slope analysis ..................................................................................................................................... 9 Climate and Rainfall .......................................................................................................................... 10 Flora and Fauna ................................................................................................................................. 12 Natural disasters ................................................................................................................................ 12 Spatial SWOT Analysis ...................................................................................................................... 13 REGULATORY AND POLICY FRAMEWORK ................................................................... 17 Policies ....................................................................................................................................... 17 Laws and Regulations .................................................................................................................. 17 Sectoral Plans ............................................................................................................................. 18 Guidelines .................................................................................................................................. 19 METHODOLOGY .............................................................................................................. 21 Background ................................................................................................................................ 21 Consultation ............................................................................................................................... 22 3.2.1 Consultation with local people ...................................................................................................... 22 3.2.2 Consultation at Sector and District level ......................................................................................... 23 3.2.3 Consultation with National Stakeholders ........................................................................................ 24 3.3 Data Collection ........................................................................................................................... 25 3.3.1 Spatial Data Collection ................................................................................................................. 25 3.3.2 Field Work and Study .................................................................................................................. 25 3.3.3 Non-Spatial Data Collection.......................................................................................................... 26 3.4 3.5 4. Data Analysis .............................................................................................................................. 27 Rubavu DLUP Report Compilation ............................................................................................... 28 RUBAVU DISTRICT LAND USE PLANNING ..................................................................... 30 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 ii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202511 4.1 Visioning and Economic Specialization of Rubavu District ...............................................................30 4.1.1 Vision of Rubavu District .............................................................................................................30 4.1.2 Rubavu Economic Specialization ................................................................................................... 31 4.2 Population, Urbanization, Rural and Housing Development ............................................................. 34 4.2.1 Population, urbanization, settlement and housing (PUSH) ................................................................ 34 4.3 Rubavu Urbanization and Rural Settlement Trends ........................................................................40 4.3.1 Rubavu Secondary City ............................................................................................................... 41 4.3.2 Rural Settlements in Rubavu District.............................................................................................50 4.3.3 NLUDMP 2020-2050 National Directives vs Rubavu DLUP 2022-2050 alignment ............................... 54 4.4 Housing Development in Rubavu District ....................................................................................... 56 4.4.1 Existing housing development ....................................................................................................... 56 4.4.2 Existing informal settlement ......................................................................................................... 58 4.4.3 Proposed Housing development..................................................................................................... 59 4.4.4 Proposed Housing stock in Rubavu District ....................................................................................60 4.4.5 Proposed housing typologies ......................................................................................................... 62 4.4.6 Densification for Rural Settlement Site ..........................................................................................70 4.4.7 Kabumba Rurban Urban Design ................................................................................................... 74 4.4.8 Rubavu Secondary City Urban Design ........................................................................................... 77 4.4.9 Rubavu Green Urbanization ......................................................................................................... 88 4.5 Rubavu Transportation Plan ........................................................................................................ 91 4.5.1 Rubavu Existing Transportation Network ...................................................................................... 91 4.5.2 Rubavu Proposed Settlement Connectivity ..................................................................................... 93 4.5.3 Green Transport Promotion Strategies .......................................................................................... 98 4.6 Public Facilities and Services ....................................................................................................... 101 4.6.1 Existing Schools in Rubavu District .............................................................................................. 101 4.6.2 Proposed Schools and Future Guidelines in Rubavu District .......................................................... 103 4.6.3 NLUDMP 2020-2050 recommendations in the Education Sector ..................................................... 103 4.6.4 Existing Healthcare Facilities in Rubavu District .......................................................................... 105 4.6.5 Proposed Healthcare Facilities and Future Guidelines in Rubavu District ........................................ 107 4.6.6 Existing Public Administration Services in Rubavu District ........................................................... 107 4.7 Public Utilities in Rubavu District ............................................................................................... 108 4.7.1 Existing Electrical Network in Rubavu District ............................................................................. 108 4.7.2 Guidelines for Future Electricity Distribution in Rubavu District .................................................... 110 4.7.3 Existing Water Lines Connectivity in Rubavu District .................................................................... 110 4.7.4 Guidelines for Future Water Lines Distribution in Rubavu District ................................................. 112 4.8 4.8.1 4.8.2 4.8.3 Agriculture and Livestock in Rubavu District ................................................................................ 114 Existing Agricultural Land in Rubavu District ...................................................................................... 114 Rubavu Proposed Agriculture Land ..................................................................................................... 118 Planned Green Agriculture Practices .................................................................................................. 120 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 iii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202512 4.8.4 4.8.5 4.9 4.9.1 4.9.2 4.9.3 4.9.4 4.9.5 4.10 4.10.1 4.10.2 4.10.3 4.10.4 4.11 4.11.1 4.11.2 4.11.3 4.11.4 4.12 4.12.1 4.12.2 Live stock ....................................................................................................................................... 120 Planning perspectives for Agriculture and livestock in Rubavu District .................................................... 121 Environmental and Natural Resources ......................................................................................... 122 Forestry ...........................................................................................................................................122 Swamplands and Water Bodies ...........................................................................................................125 Mining in Rubavu District..................................................................................................................127 Waste Management in Rubavu District ............................................................................................... 130 Stormwater Management ...................................................................................................................135 Tourism and Heritage ................................................................................................................ 139 National Context on Tourism Industry .............................................................................................139 Existing Tourism Destinations in Rubavu District .............................................................................139 Proposals on Tourism Scheme in Rubavu District .............................................................................142 Kivu Lake Shores and Islands Development Plan ..............................................................................142 Economic Development .............................................................................................................. 143 National Context on Economic Development ........................................................................................143 Existing Employment Opportunities in Rubavu District .....................................................................143 Proposals on Employment Opportunities in Rubavu District ...............................................................145 Industry, Trade and Commercial Business in Rubavu District .............................................................145 Proposed Land Use and Balance Sheet in Rubavu District ............................................................. 149 Existing Land Use ........................................................................................................................149 Proposed Land Use for Rubavu Secondary District........................................................................... 150 5. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ................................................................................. 152 5.1 5.1.1 5.1.2 5.1.3 Planning and Implementation Framework ................................................................................... 153 NLA ...............................................................................................................................................153 RHA ...............................................................................................................................................154 Rubavu District: Implementing Agency ...............................................................................................154 5.2 Legal and Institutional Framework ............................................................................................. 155 5.3 5.3.1 5.3.2 5.3.3 5.3.4 5.3.5 5.4 5.5 Rubavu Urban Master Plan and DLUP Implementation Plan .......................................................... 161 Rubavu DLUP Spatial Phasing Plan by Horizon of the Year 2035 ........................................................... 161 PROPOSED PROJECTS' IMPLEMENTATION PLAN .........................................................................163 Rubavu Capital & Catalytic Improvement Projects ................................................................................ 171 Land Readjustment & Detailed Physical Plans ......................................................................................174 Minimizing earthquake and volcanic eruption damages ..........................................................................174 Principles Guiding the Zoning Requirements in cities / urban area ................................................. 176 Rubavu DLUP Monitoring and Evaluation ................................................................................... 179 REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................... 180 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 iv Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202513 List of Figures Figure 1: Land use balance sheet ....................................................................................................... xiv Figure 2: Planning steps used during elaboration and review of Rubavu DLUP 2023- 2050 ............ 22 Figure 3: Consultation Sessions in Rubavu District ........................................................................... 24 Figure 4: Field survey for data collection in Rubavu District ............................................................ 26 Figure 5: Demographic Dynamics in Rubavu District in 2012 and 2022 ........................................... 35 Figure 6: Rubavu Secondary City ....................................................................................................... 45 Figure 7: Rubavu DLUP proposed zoning categories ........................................................................ 45 Figure 8: Existing housing structures in Rubavu District ................................................................... 57 Figure 9 : Dwelling units needed in Rwanda by 2050- Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 ..................... 60 Figure 10: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1). ................................................. 63 Figure 11: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1A). .............................................. 64 Figure 12: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1B). ............................................... 65 Figure 13: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1B). ............................................... 65 Figure 14: Illustration, apartment building (R2) ................................................................................. 66 Figure 15: Illustration, apartment building (R3) ................................................................................. 67 Figure 16: Illustration: Apartment building (R4)................................................................................ 68 Figure 17: Dual Carriage National Road/ High-Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba ............................................................................................................................................. 96 Figure 18: Single Carriage National Road/ High-Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba urban areas of 23m ROW ................................................................................................... 96 Figure 19: Primary Local Road in communities: 9-12.5m for brownfield and 12.5m for greenfield developments. ..................................................................................................................................... 97 Figure 20: Car Free Zone in Rubavu Secondary City ....................................................................... 101 Figure 21:Status of water in sectors of Rubavu District by 2022 ..................................................... 112 Figure 22: Key cash crops................................................................................................................. 115 Figure 23: Quarries in Rubavu District ............................................................................................. 129 Figure 24: Kivu Lake Public Beach in Rubavu District ................................................................... 141 Figure 25: Employment by economic activity in Rubavu District ................................................... 144 Figure 26: Design for Gisenyi Modern Market ................................................................................ 172 Figure 27: Designs for Gisenyi Modern Car Park ............................................................................ 173 Figure 28: Earthquake Effects in Rubavu City Center ..................................................................... 175 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 v Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202514 List of Tables Table 1:SWOT Analysis ..................................................................................................................... 16 Table 2: Population Distribution in Rubavu District (2012 – 2022) .................................................. 35 Table 3: Projection in normal case for the years 2022 up to 2050 ..................................................... 37 Table 4: District Population basing on NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines .......................................... 38 Table 5: Population projection in Rubavu District per residence according to NLUDMP 2020-2050 ............................................................................................................................................................ 40 Table 6: Secondary City- existing land use ........................................................................................ 43 Table 7: Existing Sectors within the Rubavu Urban Boundary .......................................................... 43 Table 8: Kabumba Rurban , land use balance sheet. .......................................................................... 48 Table 9: Kabumba proposed land use Balance sheet .......................................................................... 49 Table 10: Selected Rural Settlement Sites in Rubavu District ........................................................... 51 Table 11: Emerging Centers of Rubavu District................................................................................. 52 Table 12: Tabulating rural settlement sites access to facilities, services and utilities ........................ 54 Table 13: NLUDMP 2020-2050 National directives vs Rubavu DLUP 2022-2050 alignment ......... 55 Table 14: Residential zone categories with respective densification. Source: Land use plans zoning regulations, 2022 ................................................................................................................................. 60 Table 15: Housing Stock/Proposed Residential zones and Number of Dwelling units Source: Data analysis, NLA, April, 2023 ................................................................................................................. 62 Table 16: List of Urban Design Projects in Rubavu Secondary City ................................................. 78 Table 17: Details of Existing Road Network ...................................................................................... 92 Table 18: Rubavu Substantial Roads .................................................................................................. 94 Table 19: Rubavu Recommended Road network Classification ........................................................ 95 Table 20: Key Strategies of Green Transport Plan ............................................................................. 99 Table 21: Required size of Nursery schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 .................................................................................................................................................. 104 Table 22:: Required size of Primary schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 .................................................................................................................................................. 104 Table 23:: Required size of Secondary schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 ......................................................................................................................................... 105 Table 24: Number of households (HH) using improved cooking stoves, biogas for cooking .......... 109 Table 25: 2050 Proposed Water Supply in Rubavu District / Gihira WTP ...................................... 113 Table 26: Annual Production of Maize in Rubavu District .............................................................. 116 Table 27: Annual Production of Beans in Musanze District ............................................................ 117 Table 28: Annual Production of Irish Potatoes in Rubavu District .................................................. 117 Table 29: Cash Crops Annual Production in Rubavu District (Tones) ............................................ 117 Table 30: Rubavu s percent of land per slop category ..................................................................... 118 Table 31: Agriculture land & potential production........................................................................... 119 Table 32: Livestock status in Rubavu District .................................................................................. 121 Table 33: Recommendations for sustainable land use in Mining and Quarries ............................... 129 Table 34: Localization of waste disposal sites in Rubavu District ................................................... 133 Table 35: Industry Waste Management Plans .................................................................................. 135 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 vi Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202515 Table 36: Existing Industries in Rubavu District .............................................................................. 146 Table 37: Rubavu District Land Use Balance Sheet 2022-2050 in Rubavu District ........................ 151 Table 38: Rubavu District Implementation key actors and their responsibilities (DDS 2018-2024) 160 Table 39: Implementation Plan ......................................................................................................... 170 Table 40: Capital Investment Projects in Rubavu District (2022-2035)........................................... 171 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 vii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202516 List of Maps Map 1: Rubavu land use planning strategies ...................................................................................... xiii Map 2:Geographical location Rubavu District ..................................................................................... 6 Map 3: Hydrography and Water Resources in Rubavu District .......................................................... 7 Map 4: Soil dynamics in Rubavu District ............................................................................................. 8 Map 5: Slope in Rubavu District ......................................................................................................... 9 Map 6: Rainfall in Rubavu District ..................................................................................................... 11 Map 7: Temperature exposure in Rubavu District ............................................................................. 11 Map 8: Rubavu land use planning strategies ...................................................................................... 31 Map 9: Rubavu District population..................................................................................................... 39 Map 10: Rubavu District Urban Boundaries ...................................................................................... 42 Map 11: Zoning Plan for Rubavu Urban Boundaries (Secondary City) ............................................. 46 Map 12: Location of Kabumba Rurban Center in Rubavu District .................................................... 47 Map 13: Existing Land Use in Kabumba Rurban Center ................................................................... 48 Map 14: Distribution of Trade Centers in Rubavu District ................................................................ 53 Map 15: Tagaza Zoning Plan. ............................................................................................................. 70 Map 16: Tagaza Rural Settlement Urban Design. ............................................................................ 71 Map 17: Proposed Settlement Connectivity in Rubavu District ......................................................... 93 Map 18: Existing Education Facilities .............................................................................................. 102 Map 19: Existing healthcare facilities in Rubavu District ................................................................ 106 Map 20: Existing Electricity Distribution in Rubavu District .......................................................... 110 Map 21: Proposed Agriculture Land................................................................................................. 119 Map 22: Existing Forest Cover in Rubavu District .......................................................................... 123 Map 23: Planned forestry land in Rubavu District ........................................................................... 124 Map 24: Wetlands localization in Rubavu District ........................................................................... 126 Map 25: Proposed Disposal Sites in Rubavu District ....................................................................... 133 Map 26: Drainage System in Rubavu District .................................................................................. 138 Map 27: Major Touristic Sites in Rubavu District............................................................................ 142 Map 28: Rubavu District Existing Land Use .................................................................................... 149 Map 29: Proposed Land Use and Zoning Plan for Rubavu District ................................................. 150 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 viii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202517 List of Acronyms BPMIS: Building Permitting Management Information System BRT: Bus Rapid Transit CCP: Continuous Compliant Planning (CCP) DDS: District Development Strategy DHS: Demographic and Health Survey, DLUP: District Land Use Plan DU: Dwelling Unit EDPRS: Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy EIA: Environmental Impact Assessment ENR: Environment and natural resources GDP: Gross Domestic Product GGCRS: Green Growth and Climate Resilient Strategy GGGI: Global Green Growth Institute GIS: Geographic Information System GoR: Government of Rwanda GPS: Geographic Positioning System HH: House Hold HIC: Higher Income Country ICT: Information Communication and Technology IDP: Integrated Development Programme LED: Local Economic Development LUCA: Land Use Category LUDP: Local Urban Development Plan MCC: Milk Collection Center NLA: National Land Authority NLUDMP: National Land Use and Development Master Plan NSTI: National Strategy for Transformation PHC: Rwanda Population and Housing Census PUSH: Population, Urbanization, Settlement and Housing RAB: Rwanda Agriculture Board RDB: Rwanda Development Board Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 ix Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202518 REMA: Rwanda Environment Management Authority RHA: Rwanda Housing Authority RTDA: Rwanda Transport Development Agency SDGs: Sustainable Development Goals SEZs: Special Economic Zones SME: Small and Medium Enterprise SUDS: Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems TTC: Teacher Training College TVET: Technical and Vocational Education and Training UMIC: Upper Middle-Income Country UR: University of Rwanda WASAC: Water and Sanitation Corporation Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 x Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202519 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Rubavu District is one of seven districts forming the Western Province in the Republic of Rwanda. The District Land Use Plan (DLUP) determines the allocation of land for the entire district in both urban and rural areas, taking into account the accumulation of all thematic areas to manage the effective use of land and guide future development. The first version of Rubavu DLUP was approved in 2013 to guide land use planning across the district while implementing the NLUDMP 2010-2020, Vision 2020 and EDPRS II. In line with Vision 2050, the NLUDMP 2020-2050 was revised and approved by Cabinet in July 2020, which proposed the revision of all DLUP clusters across the country to support its implementation in two horizon phases (2035 & 2050). The Integrated Rubavu District development planning is one of the key tools for the local government to manage its new developmental role through sustainable and rational land use. In contrast to the relatively narrow role that planning had in the past, integrated development planning is now seen as a function of District Management, as part of an integrated system of planning and delivery. The District Land Use Plan, however, will not only inform the district management; it is also supposed to guide the activities of any agency from other spheres of government, corporate service providers, NGOs, the private sector and civil society within the Rubavu District area. The role of the DLUP is to give decision makers a quick and simple dig information in a spatial (map enabled) context. It will thereby contribute to the fulfillment of overall national objectives, e.g. Vision 2050, food security, poverty alleviation, gender balance, conflict resolution and environmental protection. Furthermore, it will enhance the impact of the NLUDMP by introducing a spatial dimension of the District Development Planning using GIS as a tool. Consequently, Rubavu DLUP, which includes land use plans for the urban areas - Rubavu Secondary City and Kabumba Rurban Center, other emerging centers of Kabali in Kanzenze Sector, Gasiza in Busasamana Sector and Ryabizige in Cyanzarwe Sector, the selected Rural Settlement Sites and the rural areas, mainly comprising the entire Imidugudu complex, agricultural areas, forests and infrastructure in the district, was revised to support the implementation of the horizon of the NLUDMP up to 2050. Considering the twelve Sectors that make up the District, Rubavu DLUP was developed taking into account the geographical location, topography, hydrography, soil, vegetation, population and demography as well as their specialization and economic opportunities. Therefore, Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 xi Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202520 has a vision to become “Rubavu agriculture hub, Lakeshore tourism and cross border trade for sustainable green district by 2050. This vision will be realized through the application of government policies, including in the implementation of the land use plan that have been developed in accordance with key planning strategies, that seeks to stimulate economic growth, preserve agricultural land, promote tourism, facilitate cross-border trade, and provide essential infrastructure for development and connectivity. Through careful implementation, this land use plan will support to achieve a well-planned and prosperous community that meets the needs of its residents and promotes sustainable development respecting the following key planning strategies: o Agriculture: Strengthening the investment in agriculture particularly by promoting additional value in Vegetables o Society: Improving the infrastructure accessibility development to facilitate tourism and cross border market, Urbanization for a sustainable green society o Economy: Cross border commercial hub development, lake-based transportation and lakeshore tourism, methane gas exploitation, General and light industrial park development to support agriculture and cross border activities o Environment: Natural environment conservation and disaster resilient district Land allocation has been directed by the above-mentioned planning strategies to ensure the development, sustainable and efficient exploitation of land resources, hence the following key plan were established: Industrial Park: The establishment of an industrial park zone at Muhira aims to promote economic growth and attract industries to the area. This designated zone provides suitable infrastructure and land for industrial activities, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic development; Agriculture: The plan designates specific areas to focus in agriculture, such as Bugeshi, Cyanzarwe, Mudende, and neighboring sectors with available arable lands. These zones prioritize agricultural activities and support the cultivation of crops, livestock farming, and other agricultural practices. By concentrating agricultural activities in these areas, it helps to protect and preserve agricultural land and promote food security; Touristic area: This DLUP identified a touristic zone around Kivu Lake, recognizing its potential for tourism development. This zone emphasizes the development of tourist facilities, accommodations, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 xii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202521 recreational areas, and other amenities to attract visitors and promote tourism as an economic driver for the region; Cross-Border Market and Mixed-Use Areas: The plan includes the establishment of cross-border markets at Busasamana and Rubavu sectors and plan to develop other mixed-use areas within the district. These areas facilitate trade and commerce between neighboring regions or countries, promoting economic integration and providing opportunities for cross-border exchanges of goods and services. Moreover, the specific regulations were formed for the flood-prone and fissure line zones as well as adopting Mixed-use areas that allow for a combination of residential, commercial, and recreational activities for promoting vibrant and diverse communities; Water Port and Key Infrastructures: The land use plan recognizes the importance of water ports and planned one at Nyamyumba sector near Lake Kivu and proposed the establishment of the other key infrastructures to support development, transportation and connectivity. These infrastructures include roads, ports, terminals, and transportation hubs that facilitate the movement of goods and people, enhancing regional connectivity and economic development. Map 1: Rubavu land use planning strategies The development of Rubavu DLUP was framed by several laws, strategies, policies, guidelines and directive documents to support the framework of this plan. Various stakeholders were consulted, including the involved institutions at the national level, local authorities and communities, as well as non-governmental groups, to ensure that the plan is inclusive of their participation. In addition to this Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 xiii Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202522 consultation, both spatial and statistical data were collected and analyzed on field to produce the spatial map of the existing land use and development plan of the district and to assist in the report. In general, the land distribution in the Rubavu DLUP was developed with all NLUDMP thematic areas in consideration, as shown in the following chart: Figure 1: Land use balance sheet The above chart is providing a clear picture of the proposed land uses in Rubavu District associated with the land use balance sheet to inform land allocation for the 2050 horizon. The implementation phases of this DLUP will involve all stakeholders and major catalytic projects were proposed to ensure successful implementation of this DLUP. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 xiv Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202523 1. 1.1 INTRODUCTION Background of District Land Use Plan (DLUP) In line with the National Land Use Development Master Plan (NLUDMP), Rwanda aspires to become an upper middle-income country by 2035 (with a 4,035$ GDP per Capita) and a high-income economy by 2050 (with a 12,476$ GDP per Capita). Food security and a knowledge-based economy is deemed the optimal use of land. Rwanda's land size is 26,338 km², including water areas. The population is 13,246,394 (2022), increasing at nearly 2.3% annually. Urbanization is at 27.9%, growing at 4.4% annually. Agricultural production contributes more than 36.7% of export earnings. For the last two decades and a half, the demand for land in Rwanda has increased due to high demographic pressure and resettlement caused by population growth, fragmented land sharing, and land required to spur economic recovery after the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994. Urbanization is one of the key drivers to stimulate economic growth. The Government of Rwanda, through Vision 2050, has an ambitious agenda to accelerate economic growth by increasing the annual gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. By achieving this vision, Rwandans will enjoy a higher quality of life with adequate social protection, improved health, disaster risk reduction, and food security. Additionally, sustainable urban development in combination with biodiversity conservation will reduce citizens’ vulnerability to impacts of climate change. Since 2018, the Government of Rwanda has reviewed and updated the National Land Use and Development Master Plan 2010-2020 as well as evaluating its implementation. The newly reviewed and updated National Land Use and Development Master Plan (NLUDMP) 2020-2050, approved by the Cabinet in July 2020, has the overall objective of finding solutions for the issues identified and providing specific guidelines for implementation. In addition, it proposes a national spatial structure to guide the development. All settlements, urban and rural, are part of the national spatial puzzle, including Kigali, Satellite Cities, and Secondary Cities. According to the directives of NLUDMP 2020-2050, each land use sector is urged to update land requirements and strategies following NLUDMP guidelines. The NLUDMP 2020-2050 further proposes District Land Use Plan Clusters, as a new concept of planning. This concept has the advantage of build-in compliance by simultaneous preparation of a package of plans at district and Kigali City Level. The District Land Use Plan Cluster includes urban and rural zoning plans. It is detailing planning on district level (DLUP) by integrating urban land use zoning (cities and urban centres) and rural zoning including rural villages (Imidugudu), agriculture zones, forests and infrastructure in the district. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 1 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202524 Elaboration of any master plan in the district should be done as a combined package of Local Urban and Rural areas plans to allow for integration at the district level. The product will be a District Detailed Zoning Map with zoning regulations, useful for cadastral, construction permitting systems and for further local detailed physical planning. With enforcement and smart permitting services, this type of planning will play a big role in eliminating the settlement sprawl, thus leading to a compact development. The District Land Use Plan cluster should also comply with green growth principles and climate resilient strategies to become a Green District Land Use Plan. Statutory phasing of implementation of each land-use plan will be compulsory for all districts, including Rubavu. The leading idea in phasing is tiling, which prevents random or remote locations of development. Each new phase must connect to the previous stage geometrically. A five years’ phase is recommended to be used by all district land use plans. Rubavu District is one of seven districts forming the Western Province in the Republic of Rwanda. The District Land Use Plan (DLUP) determines the allocation of land for the entire district land area in both urban and rural areas, taking into account the accumulation of all thematic areas to manage the effective use of resources and guide future development. The District Land Use Plan (DLUP) encompasses the allocation of land across the whole area of the district for different uses around diverse thematic areas in order to manage the effective use of resources and guide future development, as well as to promote more social, economic and environmental outcomes. Rubavu District approved the first version of the Rubavu DLUP in 2013, and in the same year approved the District Local Urban Development Plan (LUDP) integrating Gisenyi and Mahoko Corridor. These plans have guided land use planning across the district while implementing the NLUDMP 2010-2020, Vision 2020, and EDPRS II. A revision of Rubavu City Master Plan for Urban Development was completed in 2021, but not validated due to the earthquake that hit the area necessitating integration of its effects in the master plan. Therefore, the elaboration of Rubavu DLUP integrates the Master Plan for Urban Development and it is in compliance with the NLUDMP 2020-2050, Vision 2050, NST1, and the District Development Strategy (DDS 2018-2024). The future outlook of Rubavu Secondary City presents its economic potential, population, income and employment growth based on growth scenario projections. In view of the proposed economic restructuring and positioning of Rubavu City as a Secondary City, it is envisioned to accommodate a population of 421,396 by 2050, generating around 258,500 jobs. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 2 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202525 1.2 Objective and Scope 1.2.1 Objective The District Land Use Plan (DLUP) aims at allocating land to different uses within the district by clustering all thematic areas, so as to manage efficient use of resources and guide future developments in line with NLUDMP 2020-2050, thereby promoting social, economic and environmental benefits. Rubavu DLUP emerged with the 2050 target to align with the NLUDMP 2020-2050 and the Country planning horizon. It gives details in terms of land allocation with specifications and potentialities of the district, unlike the NLUDMP 2020-2050 which gives general guidelines to facilitate the planning balance of land use at national level.More specifically, the objectives of Rubavu DLUP include the following: 1. 2. To preserve agricultural land by encouraging land consolidation, also in rural areas; To promote tourism as a key driver of district, generating income and revenue by introducing new tourism segments; 3. To provide different scales and cost range for commercial, heavy and light industrial developments, following current and expected market dynamics; 4. To allow and facilitate vertical and horizontal incremental development allowing phased construction of commercial, mixed-use and residential buildings following the investment capacity of investors and developers; 5. To integrate Micro-Enterprise Zones in residential areas, promoting mixed-use developments with social infrastructure and green open spaces; 6. To promote densification incentives to modify building typologies and densities, thus reducing residential zones dedicated to single family housing; 7. To promote upgrading and redevelopment in high value areas where land pooling approach will be effective due to cross financing mechanism; 8. To preserve open space, historic related resources, water resources, wetlands, forests, and other environmentally important areas; 9. To facilitate adequate provision of community utilities and facilities such as transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public requirements; 10. To mitigate impacts of natural disasters, e.g. earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, around the areas which are more vulnerable Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 3 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202526 1.2.2 Scope The scope of the review and update of Rubavu DLUP focuses on the whole district, consisting of both urban and rural components. It covers all thematic land uses. Taking all land uses into consideration, land has been allocated to different uses through zoning, and an efficient land use balance sheet, which is complemented by implementation strategies for guiding the future land development toward Vision 2050. Furthermore, Rubavu DLUP is aligned with the NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines and instructions, Vision 2050 and other sectoral strategic and master plans. Rubavu DLUP has a horizon corresponding to the mid-term of Vision 2050, i.e. a planning horizon of 2022-2035. The following sectoral master plans have been integrated in Rubavu DLUP: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Agriculture land suitability mapping, 2019 Rwanda Irrigation Master Plan, 2020 Forestry and Natural Parks Water and Wetlands (including buffer zones) Power and energy Water and Sanitation master Plan, 2020 Mining and quarrying Human habitation (Urban, rurban, and rural settlements boundaries) Tourism and Conservation Plan Livestock Transportation Plan Irrigation Master Plan Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 4 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202527 1.3 Rubavu District Description 1.3.1 Geographical location of Rubavu District Rubavu District is 388 km2 and is one of the 30 districts of Rwanda, located in the Western Province surrounded by Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the north and to the west, Rutsiro District to the south and Nyabihu District to the east. The district is divided into 12 administrative sectors (Nyamyumba, Gisenyi, Rugerero, Rubavu, Nyundo, Nyakiriba, Kanama, Cyanzarwe, Kanzenze, Mudende, Busasamana and Bugeshi), 80 cells and 525 villages. The district is known for tourism due to its location byLake Kivu. Rubavu District is located 150 km from Kigali City. Nyamyumba Sector, located by Lake Kivu, is the largest sector area wise, followed by Kanama Sector which accommodates a large part of the farming activities in the district as well as Gishwati Natural Forest. Most sectors in the district have enough developable land to establish economic activities and public facilities. The smallest sector is Gisenyi, which has limited development opportunities due to its size. Some activities will have to be relocated from Gisenyi to urban areas within other sectors and to Kabumba Rurban Center in Bugeshi Sector. Rubavu Secondary City originally developed into a vacation resort, as the Belgians started constructing villas and hotels along the shores of Lake Kivu during the first half of the 20th century. The commercial area of the city was built a bit further away from the lake shore and the residential areas reserved for the white settlers. Lake Kivu, next to Rubavu City, is the major landscape feature in the area. Another key natural asset is Gishwati Forest where a number of mammals and bird species are found. These features make Rubavu District an attractive destination for domestic tourism. On the regional level, Rubavu District has served as a gateway for cross border business, trade and tourism due to the strategic location in close proximity to DRC. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 5 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202528 Map 2:Geographical location Rubavu District 1.3.2 Hydrography and Water Resources Rubavu District is situated within the Kivu Nile and Sebeya catchment areas, which are the main sources of water in the district besides groundwater resources. Lake Kivu is one of the major water bodies in the region and forms part of the African Great Lakes. This is a series of Rift Valley lakes in and around the East African Rift. Consequently, Lake Kivu is the largest water body in the district. Lake Kivu is a headwater catchment with a series of small catchments draining into the lake. It is a stratified lake, with high volumes of dissolved carbon dioxide and methane in its lower layers. Lake Kivu is also part of the Congo Basin, shared with the DRC and covering an area of 102,800 ha within Rwanda alone. Other surface water bodies in the district include the Sebeya River. The river measures 110 km, originating in Gishwati Natural Forest and draining into Lake Kivu. The catchment of Sebeya River is composed of Pfunda and Karambo sub-catchments and Sebeya downstream sub-catchment. Rubavu City, as well as areas prone to erosion and areas with mining activities, are located within the catchment of Sebeya River. As a result, Sebeya River is polluted with sediments and most likely metals Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 6 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202529 that are transported by the river into the lake. Protection of the river requires a coordination of all actions within the district within the river’s catchment Besides Sebeya River, the major river draining water from the watersheds is Pfunda. Pfunda River flows through the large marsh of Pfunda on its 15 km course before merging with the Sebeya River. The northern part of the district suffers from a lack of a hydraulic network as the area is situated on lava rock with no permanent rivers, with the exception of Mizingo and Mutura, whose sources are in the natural forests of the Congo-Nile ridge. Map 3: Hydrography and Water Resources in Rubavu District The impact of climate change is evidenced through floods and droughts that occur with increasing frequency and sometimes with high magnitude. Recent floods escalated by the overflow of the Sebeya River affected several sectors in the district, destroying properties and even casualties. Environmental degradation, such as the deforestation in Gishwati Forest, has led to downstream sectors being vulnerable to the increase in rainfall associated with climate change. In some areas, flooding is recurring due to lack of proper stormwater management. In cases where storm water mixes with sewage, it becomes a health hazard polluting both land and water sources. The Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 7 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202530 flood-prone areas in the district are primarily located within Rubavu Secondary City, Busasamana, and around the Sebeya River corridor. Gitsimbi is the main wetland in the district, located within Rubavu Secondary City. Most of the 12,753 m2 Gitsimbi wetland is under sugarcane cultivation. The majority of wetlands in the district are used for agriculture, and no wetland development program exists. 1.3.3 Soil and Erosion 1.3.3.1 Soil in Rubavu District There are two types of soil in Rubavu secondary District, volcanic soil and heavy clay soil. The two soil types are fertile compared to other types of soils found in Rwanda. Volcanic soil exhibits a high level of water infiltration while heavy clay soils have a high-water retention capacity. The main types of crops grown on those soils include vegetables and fruits. According to FAO soil classification, Rubavu District is mainly rich in haplic, humic, and molic soil types. Map 4: Soil dynamics in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 8 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202531 1.3.3.2 Erosion in Rubavu District Soil erosion and soil nutrient loss are major problems, with only about half the land protected against soil erosion. The zone adjacent to the Gishwati National Forest (the peripheral zone) is prone to soil erosion due to steep slopes and high rainfall. 1.3.4 Slope analysis In general, the slopes in Rubavu District are quite gentle below 30%. However, like much of the Western Province, the southern sectors in the district are in a mountainous region. The highest altitude in Rubavu District is Mount Muhungwe (2,928 m above main sea level) and the lowest altitude along the shores of Lake Kivu (1,460 m above main sea level). Mount Rubavu and Mount Muhungwe, together with Ibere Ryabigogwe, are significant topographical and landscape features. The mountainous areas with slopes of more than 30% are less suitable for urban expansion. Zones with slopes of more than 15% located at immediate proximity of the urban or urbanizable perimeter, constitute sensitive zones because of their fragility towards erosion and risks of landslide. These areas are to be protected. The below map is providing more descriptive features of the topography in Rubavu District with direct implication on land use utilization and suitability. Map 5: Slope in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 9 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202532 Much of the flatter areas in the district are used for cultivation. Further urban development would therefore be made at the expense of land currently used for cultivation of production of food crops. In addition, the areas around Lake Kivu are fragile and must be protected by appropriate measures from pollution caused by increased urbanization. The urban boundaries of Rubavu Secondary City is located on two main relief categories: a flat area and a mountainous area. This strongly shapes the development of the city. The flat (plain) area, in which the city currently is situated, is the most suitable area for urban development. 1.3.5 Climate and Rainfall The rainfall pattern of Rwanda is bi-modal, i.e. it has two rain seasons. Rainfall depends on the progression of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) as it follows the position of the sun between its northern (June) and southern summer solstices (December). This pattern results in 'long rains' (March to May), and 'short rains' (September to December). Rubavu District is characterized by high rainfall (1,200 mm/year and above) and a relatively short dry season from June to August. Erratic showers continue in January and February, which is normally the second dry season in drier parts of the country (Water for Growth Rwanda, 2018). Rainfall and temperatures are associated with topography and altitude. The urban areas surrounding Lake Kivu are relatively hot (high temperature) compared to the colder zones of the neighboring Volcano National Park and Gishwati Forest in Kanama, Kanzenze and Bugeshi. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 10 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202533 Map 6: Rainfall in Rubavu District Map 7: Temperature exposure in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 11 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202534 1.3.6 Flora and Fauna Gishwati Natural Forest in the north-east of the district and is since 2019 part of Gishwati-Mukura National Park. In the last decades, the forest has dramatically decreased in size, and deforestation has resulted in serious loss of biodiversity. Gishwati Forest is today home to a group of 20 chimpanzees, golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s and blue monkeys, and still contains a number of bird species. Gishwati Forest is located within the districts of Rubavu, Nyabihu, Ngororero and Rutsiro. The forest and its wildlife provide a potential to develop the tourism industry in the district. In 2007, the Gishwati Area Conservation Program was launched. The aim is to create a national conservation park in order to protect the rich biodiversity of the forest. Forest coverage in the district has decreased in the last two decades and currently stands at 42%. Most of the tree species in Rubavu Secondary City are within plantations and grown and harvested for commercial use. The main species are Arinus, Cypres, Eucalyptus, Grevellia, and Pinus. Lake Kivu is home to approximately 28 fish species, half of which are lake-specific cichlids. Four species have been introduced into the lake. The lake and its basin are home to approximately 142 plant species, 80 bird species, 52 invertebrates, six mammals, six reptile species, and five amphibians. The area surrounding the lake is covered in broad-leaved (semi-deciduous) evergreen forests and woodland. Some species, including the marsh mongoose (Atilax paludinosus), aquatic birds, and snakes like the rhinoceros viper (Bitis nasicornis) and the black cobra (Naja melanoleuca), are deemed endangered and are on the IUCN red list. 1.3.7 Natural disasters Rubavu District is one of the districts in Rwanda that experiences adverse disasters that pose a threat to human lives, property and infrastructure, and to the environment. These disasters include flooding, landslides, volcanic eruptions and landslides. Flooding in urban and suburban areas is often linked to lack of holistic stormwater management, including drainage networks and water retention ponds to mitigate runoff and flash floods during the rainy season. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 12 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202535 1.3.8 Spatial SWOT Analysis Spatial SWOT analysis is a methodology to understand the strengths and weaknesses, and for identifying opportunities and threats linked to land use planning and development strategies. The methodology aims to identify synergies between land uses and help mitigate any negative impact a certain land use can pose on neighboring activities. The table below presents the spatial SWOT analysis of Rubavu District as per the NST1 sectors. Based on the findings of the SWOT analysis, the District has crafted spatial priorities for the next six years of the DDS to maximize identified opportunities and strengths, as well as strategies and mitigation measures to address existing weaknesses and threats. SWOT: Agriculture and Livestock Strengths Weaknesses ● ● ● ● ● Land suitable for agriculture and livestock farming. ● Agricultural practices are mainly limited to subsistence Land consolidation in progress for priority crops. farming. Favorable weather for agriculture. Existing agro processing industries Existing seed multiplication facilities ● ● ● Unconsolidated agricultural land Insufficient agro processing industries for value addition. Inadequate road connectivity from agricultural production to Opportunities markets. Threats ● ● Potential market of neighboring districts and countries. ● Area prone to natural disasters (earthquakes, flooding, Water based transport landslides) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 13 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202536 SWOT: Economic Theme Strengths Weakness ● ● ● Existing road transport network. Cross border markets and emerging trading centers Lake Kivu and the Kivu belt road connects the districts of ● ● ● Proliferation of informal settlements. Inefficient urbanization coordination mechanisms. Uncoordinated transport services, poor road quality, Rubavu, Rutsiro, Karongi, Nyamasheke and Rusizi and. undeveloped maritime connections to DRC and neighboring districts ● Hydro and methane gas power plants which increases the through maritime. number of on grid connections ● Slow transition from scattered industries to Industrial Parks for ● Rubavu City Master Plan which attracts potential investors. general and light industries ● ● ● Inefficient use of Rubavu airstrip for economic activities. Inadequate energy supply especially in rural areas. Low exploitation of historical sites and landscape areas for the Opportunities tourism sector. Threats ● ● Strategic location regarding national and international travels. Tourism potential around Lake Kivu, historical sites and ● ● Regional conflicts impact cross border trade and activities. Area prone to natural disasters (earthquakes, volcanic landscapes. eruptions, flooding and landslides) ● ● Rubavu Secondary City is a main regional node. ● Illegal cross border trade. Water transport and port on Lake Kivu. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 14 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202537 SWOT: Social Theme Strengths Weaknesses ● ● ● Existing public facilities (health and education) ● Insufficient and old public facilities (health and education) Existing sports and recreational facilities in urban areas. especially in rural areas. Tourism facilities contribute to improving resident social lifestyles and enhance urbanization. ● Historical sites within the district. ● ● ● Insufficient recreational and sports facilities in rural areas. Insufficient cemeteries Low exploitation of historical sites for education purposes. Opportunities Threats ● Huge population from the neighboring DRC that offer opportunities for promoting medical, tourism, education staff ready ● ● Insecurity of the neighboring country. Migration due to impacts of natural disasters (earthquakes, for positive changes. volcanic eruptions, landslides, flooding) ● Guidelines for Lake Kivu Belt Tourism Development. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 15 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202538 SWOT: Environmental Theme Strengths Weaknesses ● ● ● ● Access to the National Volcano Park. Existing landfill for waste management. Natural resources (forests, water bodies, wetlands, quarries). ● ● ● Inadequate waste management. Inadequate stormwater management Poor management of natural resources (forest, wetlands, Drainage systems in urban areas, dams for stormwater waterbodies). management. ● Illegal mining activities, poor mining causing land degradation. ● Existing green space in urban areas. Opportunities Threats ● ● ● Planned project for catchment restoration and protection ● Likelihood of natural disasters (flooding, earthquakes, Ongoing project on the protection of Sebeya River landslides). Guideline for utilization of Lake Kivu shores ● ● ● Increase of informal settlements Rapid population growth Anticipated urbanization rate and structure Table 1:SWOT Analysis Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 16 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202539 2. REGULATORY AND POLICY FRAMEWORK 2.1 Policies • National Land Policy, June 2019, MoE The revised land policy focuses on the efficient utilization and management of land to support the national transformation goals without compromising the benefits of future generations. To achieve this objective, the policy outlines actions organized into three core pillars: land use planning, surveying, and mapping; land use management; and land administration. These pillars encompass eight thematic areas: (a) Land use planning, surveying, and mapping; (b) Integration of land utilization across various Sectors; (c) Effective land use management; (d) Facilitation of private sector investment in land; (e) Land registration procedures; (f) Administration of land lease fees, real property taxes, and land markets; (g) Ensuring land rights security and managing land disputes; (h) Institutional framework and coordination mechanisms within the land sub-sector. · National Urbanization Policy, December 2015, MININFRA; · National Human Settlement Policy in Rwanda, May 2009, MININFRA; · National Housing Policy, March 2015, RHA. 2.2 Laws and Regulations • Presidential Order n° 038/01 of 20/05/2022 establishing NLUDMP • The Presidential Order establishes the NLUDMP, delineates a planning horizon spanning the next three decades. The Order outlines the revision process, ensuring alignment with other plans, and assigns responsible institutions for implementation, emphasizing the pivotal role of all sectors. With the NLUDMP gazetted, the focus now shifts to effectively implementing it through DLUPs and other tools, ensuring strict adherence to alignment principles between NLUDMP and DLUPs. It is against this backdrop that Rubavu District revised its Land Use Plan, ensuring compliance with the directives set forth in NLUDMP 2020-2050. • Law n° 27/2021 of 10/06/2021 governing land • The law governing land in Rwanda regulates land affairs, contains detailed provisions concerning land use management and development, as well as the institutional framework and procedures governing the initiation, development, adoption, and establishment of land use and Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 17 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202540 development plans at the district level. The legislation specifically governs land occupancy and construction activities on areas designated for human habitation. Moreover, it encompasses the planning of plots and site development to facilitate the realization of national, City of Kigali, and district land use master plans. • Rubavu DLUP was revised taking into consideration additional laws related to land management and utilization such as: • Law n°10/2012 of 02/05/2012 governing urban planning and building in Rwanda. Urban planning should strive for the gradual and adaptable advancement of urban centers within the context of economic and social development policies, incorporating rural planning and environmental preservation objectives; • Law n°20/2011 of 21/06/2011 governing human habitation in Rwanda. This law governs land occupation and construction on lands reserved for human habitation; • Ministerial Order n° 04/Cab.M/015 of 18/05/2015 determining urban planning and building in Rwanda; • Ministerial Order No 005/MoE/22 of 15/02/2022 determining modalities of change of land use. • Land use plans zoning regulations edition 1, November 2022. 2.3 Sectoral Plans • Strategic Plan for agriculture transformation (2018-24) • Strategic Plan for agriculture transformation (2018-24) • National Transportation Policy and Strategy for Rwanda (April,2021) • National Wetlands Management Framework for Rwanda (December,2020) • The state of soil erosion in Control in Rwanda (May,2022) • Rwanda Irrigation Master Plan (2020) • Rwanda Transmission master plan (2022-2030) • National Feeder Roads Master Plan (2023) • Rwanda Forest Cover Mapping Report (November,2019) • Revised Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy (September 2022) • National Determined Contribution (May 2020) • National Water and Sanitation Policy (October 2023) • Rwanda Electricity Distribution Master Plan (June 2022) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 18 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202541 2.4 Guidelines Numerous land use planning guidelines established in previous years remain pertinent and continue to inform current practices, e.g.: • Ministerial Instructions relating to the implementation of the National Grouped Settlement Program in Rural Areas (27 May 2009); • Urban Planning and Building Codes (June 2019, MININFRA); • Land Use Planning Guidelines (December 2017, NLA); • Land Readjustment guidelines (October 2021, NLA); • Ministerial Instructions no.001 of 23/04/2018 determining the management and use of the lands allocated for agriculture and livestock. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 19 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202542 Chapter three: Methodology Rubavu District Land Use Plan (DLUP: 2022 – 2050) was elaborated based on existing data collected, analyzed and interpreted to reflect the real local context of Rubavu District. Field Data Collection, Interviews, Focus Group Discussions and Public Consultation guided the social inclusiveness of this DLUP. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 20 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202543 3. 3.1 METHODOLOGY Background A joint team of NLA and District in a participatory and consultative approach with a relevant stakeholders at local and national level, prepared Rubavu DLUP. The team worked together step by step in the preparation of the DLUP. This supported sharing of relevant data from both NLA, District and other stakeholders. The development of Rubavu DLUP was undertaken in the framework of alignment with the NLUDMP 2020-2050, hence the preparation of the plan was made to harmonize with not only NLUDMP 2020-2050 but also DDS, NST1 and Vision 2050 etc. The NLUDMP 2020-2050, approved by the Cabinet, was presented to the District authority and its partners by NLA. This provided information and awareness to the district leaders, staff and stakeholders. The planning activities started with situational and desktop analysis to source available data, identify what tools to be used to efficiently consolidate the data, methodologies to be applied, what consultative meetings and investigations to be conducted, data collection including land surveying and physical analysis, and assessment of boundary compliance for urban, rurban, and rural settlement sites. Dissemination and public awareness were conducted in all sectors where the District and NLA teams engaged with local communities for primary data gathering, urban and rural settlement urban boundaries verification and reshaping, to propose location for new or additional land uses, and also to identify and understand the needs and priorities of the local communities. After the district land use plan and planning report was drafted, validation meetings were organized with the District Council. The District Council (Njyanama) and various stakeholders provided input prior to the final approval of the Rubavu DLUP at District level. The following figure illustrates the steps undertaken during the elaboration of the Rubavu DLUP. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 21 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202544 Figure 2: Planning steps used during elaboration and review of Rubavu DLUP 2023- 2050 3.2 Consultation Consultation emerged as one of the methodologies used in the development of the DLUP for Rubavu District. This method was intended to build awareness of the project among different stakeholders, including partner institutions, local authorities and the community concerned. The consultation provided a clear understanding of the Rubavu DLUP, its targets for the community and the country, the scope of the project, its time frame, the activities to be covered and how they should be carried out to ensure a reliable result. During the development of Rubavu DLUP, consultation meetings were held among the different institutions, local authorities and the community. A variety of consultative meeting were held at District and local levels that brought together different District stakeholders including representatives of sectors, cells, villages, church leaders, civil society organizations, security organs, private sector operators as well as NLA as the coordinating institution of this assignment and District organization with the aim of ensuring that participatory approach especially in terms of discussion and agreement on the priority areas and the implementation strategy. 3.2.1 Consultation with local people The community is the prime user of the land for diverse activities to feed itself and sustain its life in numerous ways. Given the high population growth in almost all parts of the country, and the limited skills in land use planning and management, the population poses the issue of land fragmentation, whereby land is split into extremely small pieces. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 22 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202545 This leads to growing land conflicts as well as poor production and management. However, the DLUP has emerged as a solution to facilitate better land management and efficient use of available land resources. This provides a clear guidance for the local authority and a proper planning framework to help the community to use and manage its land resources. With the DLUP, land conflicts are eradicated, and people are given the opportunity to work and develop their land. Hence, people must have knowledge about and understand the plan to be able to develop their land according to the national vision and long-term planning. 3.2.2 Consultation at Sector and District level At the local level, the DLUP was developed through the combined efforts of the concerned district (consultation meeting with district OSC staff), its sectors, cells and villages. The district takes the lead in the DLUP, then the villages, cells (consultation meeting at cell level, including Imidugudu) and sectors act as the closest authority to the community as well as to opinion leaders. The DLUP consultation with local authorities aims at improving the understanding of the benefits of the project in terms of enhanced land management and economic development. This type of consultation aims to engage local communities as well as to build their sense of ownership in the project, as it concerns their territories and benefits them and their community. The local authorities are the main implementers and regular supervisors in the implementation of the DLUP. Consequently, raising awareness of the project is essential for its success. In the planning process, local authorities are the ones who have detailed knowledge about the terrain and provide important and accurate information for good planning and development. They know the needs and efforts of the local people, potential areas for development, and understand the appropriate land use to be allocated in each part of the locality. In the case of Rubavu District, the local authorities are the ones who guided on what locations are suitable for agriculture, mining, tourism, forestry, etc. and assisted in good land allocation in an efficient manner. In addition, it is beneficial for the local authorities to participate in the process as they are the one to mobilize the community in the planning phase to make the project more participatory, and in the implementation phase to make the project more successful. Various consultative meetings were held at Rubavu District level, bringing together different stakeholders in the district, including representatives of sectors, cells, villages, religious figures, civil society organizations, security bodies and private sector operators. NLA, as the coordinating institution for this mission, and the district organization aimed to ensure a participatory approach, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 23 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202546 including discussion and agreement on priority areas and implementation strategy. The following photos were taken during the consultation sessions with local communities. Figure 3: Consultation Sessions in Rubavu District 3.2.3 Consultation with National Stakeholders Many stakeholders at national level may be involved in the DLUP implementation process. Thus, institutional consultation aims to make the various governmental and non-governmental institutions aware of the need to participate in its development and implementation. The collaboration of the different institutions play an important role in the success of the project in terms of planning, coordination, information sharing, development and implementation. In the case of the DLUP, various institutions work together in accordance with their mandate, with the NLA as the lead institution, to support the overall land use and development project. During the elaboration of the DLUP, all sectors have to work together as all activities need land to sustain current and future projects that revolve around their mandates. In this case, they have to maximize their demand for land, which may raise land conflicts between various interests. However, the DLUP is put in place to provide the best land use balance for the different sectors, as all are interdependent during development. The DLUP is a solution to efficiently allocate land to different sectors, to effectively manage the use of available resources by different institutions, to guide the future development of communities, and to promote more social, economic and environmental outcomes. During Rubavu DLUP, the various institutions involved in the project and consulted by NLA were RDB (field consultation on tourism zone), RHA, RTDA, NISR, LODA, REMA (field consultation on conservation), RWB (field consultation on stormwater management plan), RWFA, FONERWA, WASAC, REG, RAB, and various ministries such as MINEDUC, MINISANTE, MINAGRI, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 24 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202547 MINISPORT, etc. The institutions and ministries, depending on their mandates, have to achieve their objectives in the district concerned, whereby it is necessary to find a good balance in terms of land use. 3.3 Data Collection Two categories of data were collected during Rubavu DLUP elaboration: spatial data and non spatial data. 3.3.1 Spatial Data Collection Spatial data includes geographic information about the earth and its features. The most common method of collecting spatial data is through the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. The development of Rubavu DLUP required the collection of spatial, or geographical data, for all areas considered in the land use plan. The spatial data collected for the elaboration of the DLUP includes existing infrastructure (roads, electricity, water supply, educational and healthcare facilities, markets, administrative offices, mining sites etc.), as well as the location of potential settlements to delineate their boundaries, from urban to rural areas, to differentiate these from other land uses. Spatial data collection also included identifying and marking areas likely to be protected or conserved, such as tourism sites, and disaster-prone areas such as steep slopes or wetlands. The focus of spatial data collection has been to support the development of Rubavu DLUP with accurate data and a clear understanding of the terrain, used to allocate land for various uses. Spatial data collection was carried out using tools such as Garmin GPS, DGPS, Earth collector, and SW Maps during the fieldwork. A collateral methodology was used to collect spatial data available from various institutions involved in the DLUP. The accumulation of these spatial data and projects provides the basis for data collection on the ground and provides detailed information for zoning and subsequent implementation support. During this collateral spatial data collection, existing data on the current situation and future prospects informed the planning and allocation of land within each sector. 3.3.2 Field Work and Study Based on the desktop analysis, the NLA team together with the District One-Stop Center conducted a field land survey and physical analysis within the priority areas in both urban, rurban, and rural settlements sites. The following photos were taken during our field survey and data collection exercises. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 25 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202548 Figure 4: Field survey for data collection in Rubavu District 3.3.3 Non-Spatial Data Collection Non-spatial data (such as attribute or characteristic data) consists of information that is independent of any geometric considerations. It includes data that is not demonstrated with location-based and geographic location. Basically, non-spatial data accumulate statistical and quantitative data that provide information about features or phenomena in the form of definitions, explanations and can be displayed in graphs, tables, but not maps. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 26 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202549 When elaborating the DLUP, non-spatial data is needed to support the analysis and inform the planning of the district. Statistical data, e.g. on neighborhood level regarding economy, environment and livelihoods, is needed and guides the preparation of Rubavu DLUP. Non-spatial data collected and used during the elaboration of Rubavu DLUP includes demographic statistics including current and projected status, allocation of economic data such as income generation and economic activities, trade (goods and services), security data and its organs, and religious statistical data etc. In Rubavu District, non-spatial data was collected during fieldwork by visiting each situation on site, and consulting different institutions, local authorities, and nongovernmental groups. The non-spatial data adds valuable input in addition to the spatial data and provides information for decision-making in effective planning. The data has also emphasized the need for various efforts in specific sectors. 3.4 Data Analysis Data analysis encompasses the process of reviewing, cleaning, transforming, and modeling data with the goal of discovering useful information, drawing conclusions, and supporting decision making. Land use plan data analysis involves applying spatial and non-spatial data on infrastructure, zoning, and other features to describe, illustrate, summarize, and interpret the data. Spatial and non-spatial data are analyzed to generate the land use zoning layers, and for the compilation of tabulations and graphs in the DLUP report. The analysis of spatial and non-spatial data assists in effective land use allocation, effective planning and balancing of different thematic areas. The analysis helped to identify suitable areas for different land uses, e.g. zoning the settlements into convenient locations and allocating other land uses in different areas. Through data analysis, the urban and rural settlement areas were mapped out and the associated land use zones were planned. Steep slopes zones were identified, to be allocated for forest plantations, and disaster-prone areas were identified to different inform land allocations. For the data analysis geospatial technology, especially GIS software, were used to acquire data from the field and manipulate it in the office to get a clear representation. With regard to GIS software, the technical team used ArcGIS 10.8 version, as well as ArcGIS pro, to create shape files and associated maps for zoning. GIS further helped in creating tabular data by referring to the attribute tables of the geospatial data. These tabulated data were later analyzed using Excel and SPSS to ensure a good and accurate representation in the report. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 27 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202550 The results of Rubavu DLUP data analysis represent the distinct land use planning layers for the current and planned land use. The result includes the maps, tables, and graphs that describe the land use planning outcomes in Rubavu District. 3.5 Rubavu DLUP Report Compilation The DLUP report presents all land use planning related concepts, data, and other information that illustrates how land is allocated to support the effective use of resources and guide future development at the district level. The report serves to document the current status and projected situation with respect to land use in the district. The DLUP report compiles the data collected into a single document that represents the district master plan. The document consists of text, maps, tables, diagrams, and other outlines that describe the district in concern given the background of all the issues. The DLUP report presents the planning situation of the district considering PUSH (population, urbanization, settlement and housing), spatial economy (mining, trade, industrialization, agriculture, etc.), tourism and conservation, infrastructure and services, and environment. The DLUP report was drafted by NLA, with input from the district. A retreat, with the district and relevant stakeholders, was held to harmonize the report and collect comments from various partners. The outcome of the retreat was constructive comments, gathering of various missing data, and validation of the report. Rubavu DLUP report is structured to give an introduction to the DLUP, the relevant regulatory and policy framework guiding the DLUP, the methodology used, the land use and development planning, implementation strategies, compliance and monitoring, and conclusions and recommendations, and appendices. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 28 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202551 Chapter four: Land Use Planning Proposals Rubavu District Land Use Plan (DLUP: 2022 – 2050) has a Vision of transforming the District of Rubavu into “An Excellent Gateway for Leisure and Cross Border Trade” Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 29 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202552 4. 4.1 RUBAVU DISTRICT LAND USE PLANNING Visioning and Economic Specialization of Rubavu District 4.1.1 Vision of Rubavu District The vision of Rubavu District is aligned to the country's target of becoming a middle-income country by 2035, and a high-income country by 2050. The District vision is aligned with Vision 2050 and the NLUDMP 2020-2050. According to the Rubavu District Development Strategy (DDS), the district is committed to protecting the environment and fighting against the effects of climate change. By focusing on the unique qualities and characteristics of Rubavu District, the District will develop as a Agriculture and Cross Border Business Hub, promote Water Transportation and Lakeshore Tourism, and enable Methane Exploitation. In this regard, Rubavu District has the vision to become “a hub for agriculture, lakeshore tourism and cross border trade for a sustainable and green district by 2050”. The objectives are specific, measurable, appropriate, realistic and achievable, and time bound (SMART). In addition, key planning strategies are adopted to guide land allocation: • Agriculture: Strengthening the investment in agriculture as well as promoting additional value in vegetable • Society: Improving infrastructure accessibility to facilitate tourism and cross border trade, and sustainable and green urbanization. • Economy: Promoting cross border commercial developments, water-based transportation, lakeshore tourism, and methane gas exploitation. General and light industrial park developments will support agriculture and cross border trade activities. • Environment: Promoting conservation of the natural environment and working towards a disaster resilient district. To implement and achieve the Vision 2050 at district level, Rubavu DLUP has a planning horizon of the year 2035 which is in accordance with the midterm review of Vision 2050. Implementation will be done through the following development strategies: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Tourism development Industrial development Regional and international trade Food security and agro-processing Green settlement and erbanization Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 30 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202553 6. 7. 8. 9. Education and health for all Agribusiness and transportation Water sports Maritime transportation 10. Methane extraction Map 8: Rubavu land use planning strategies 4.1.2 Rubavu Economic Specialization 4.1.2.1 The current economic specialization in Rubavu District Rubavu's current economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and livestock activities which employs more than 75% of the total workforce (Rubavu DDS, 2018). Economic diversification is crucial to transform Rubavu's economy into a sustainable one and reduce its economic volatility and increase its performance. A diversified economy is one that is not overly dependent on one or two economic sectors or activities, but evenly distributed across a wide variety of economic sectors. Rubavu is an International Gateway City located near the border city of Goma in DRC. It is also a lakeside hub for tourism and business. Rubavu District has had the highest GDP growth rate among Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 31 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202554 all Secondary Cities, averaging about 10.8% in the last 7 years (Rubavu DDS, 2018). This economic growth has been mainly driven by the trade, industry and tourism sectors enhanced by Rubavu's strategic location and proximity to large markets in DRC, its location within a densely populated and fertile agricultural corridor, and the presence of investments from (relatively) large formal firms. In addition, growth of new business establishments in Rubavu was the highest at 36% among all Secondary Cities between 2014 and 2017. This growth rate is above the national average as well as above the City of Kigali. Given the development of trade in Rubavu and the role of the city in terms of supporting urbanization in Rwanda, Rubavu DLUP proposes a significant land area to be allocated for trade and commercial sectors. Special economic zones (SEZ) are planned for various industries in Rubavu Secondary City and Kabumba Center. Tourism is centered on the lakeshore and is one of the main sources of economic development in the district. It is a spurred by increasing the number of hotels and developing tourism products along lakeshore. The positive economic specialization is supported by the creation of decent and productive jobs, especially through cross border trade with Goma in DRC, the existence of modern public markets and trading centers, and the presence of business establishments, e.g. BRALIRWA headquarters. Increase in agriculture production and productivity, as well as value addition to agriculture products should be promoted. 4.1.2.2 Planned Economic Specialization in Rubavu District Various economic activities are expected for the development and growth of Rubavu District, which will contribute to the district's GDP and the creation of off-farm jobs. Key Economic Drivers for Rubavu District are: Primary Sector: Agriculture and agricultural production (maize, beans and Irish potatoes, pyrethrum, coffee ● and tea) ● ● ● Fishing and forestry Mining (Coltan, Wolfram, sand and rock quarries) Livestock (cattle, sheep, goats, poultry, pigs, bees and fish) Secondary Sector (Light and General Industries) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 32 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202555 Processing and transformation of forestry products Mining processing ● ● ● ● Tertiary Sector (Services) Agro-processing Other factories, industries and processing/transformation units ● ● ● Education and health services Commerce, trade and businesses Transport and communication Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 33 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202556 4.2 Population, Urbanization, Rural and Housing Development 4.2.1 Population, urbanization, settlement and housing (PUSH) Rwanda has made substantial investments in reproductive health, family planning, and maternal and child health programs. These efforts and initiatives have led to the reduction of the fertility rate. If existing interventions are strengthened, and new innovative strategies are established, fertility can be further reduced to achieve the national total fertility rate goal. The Government of Rwanda has made family planning a key component of its development agenda, as documented in its Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy. Therefore, the government aims at sustaining family planning as the way of controlling the high birth rate. 4.2.1.1 Rubavu District Existing Population According to the fifth population and housing census (2022), Rubavu is the most populated district in the Western Province. The current population is close to 546,700, of which 51.1% are female. Rubavu Secondary City is one of the fastest growing cities in Rwanda, with the second highest growth rate (3.7%) compared to other Secondary Cities. Factors that are contributing to the increase in population are natural growth rate and internal migration. The highest population densities are distributed in the sectors along the Rubavu-Musanze corridor, such as Nyakiriba and Kanzenze with 1,373 inhabitants/km² and 944 inhabitants/km² respectively. The following table and figure figure allows the comparison of demographic growth between the year 2012 and 2022. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 34 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202557 Sector Name Type of Sector: Urban; Rural Bugeshi Busasamana Cyanzarwe Gisenyi Kanama Kanzenze Mudende Nyakiriba Nyamyumba Nyundo Rubavu Rugerero Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Rural & Urban Total 2012 Census Counts Male Female Total 29,687 15,730 13,957 31,253 16,728 14,525 29,615 15,715 13,900 53,603 26,558 27,045 29,220 15,567 13,653 21,309 11,418 9,891 26,031 13,779 12,252 30,068 13,736 16,332 37,491 19,391 18,100 30,417 16,144 14,273 42,394 21,857 20,537 20,524 42,574 22,050 194,989 208,673 403,662 Number of HHs per Sector year 2012 Numbers 6,261 6,954 6,628 11,968 6,450 4,073 5,664 5,832 8,140 6,918 9,753 10,208 88,849 2022 Census Counts Male Female Total 33,892 17,636 16,256 40,542 21,143 19,399 38,977 20,315 18,662 51,594 26,138 25,456 37,584 19,846 17,738 23,127 12,306 10,821 32,077 16,824 15,253 50,834 22,078 28,756 48,718 24,990 23,728 42,305 22,243 20,062 80,107 41,343 38,764 32,404 66,926 34,522 267,299 279,384 546,683 Number of HHs per Sector year 2022 Numbers 7,853 9,158 8,505 13,229 8,496 5,299 7,460 9,525 10,892 9,468 18,486 15,709 124,080 Table 2: Population Distribution in Rubavu District (2012 – 2022) Figure 5: Demographic Dynamics in Rubavu District in 2012 and 2022 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 35 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202558 As shown on the above table and figure on demographic trends in Rubavu District, Gisenyi Sector is the highest populated sector of the district for the year 2012 and 2022 as result of increased urbanization due to trade and tourism industries but in 2022 the population has decreased as compared to that of 2012 due migration movements from the core urban center to the peripheries of the city in seek of cheap residential plots (Rugerero, Rubavu, Nyamyumba and Nyundo Sectors). Kanzenze Sector, being rural and accommodating a big part of Gishwati National Forest, became the lowest populated sector of the district. 4.2.1.2 Projected Population in Rubavu District a. Population projection under normal cases (“Business as Usual”) from 2022 to 2050 If the current population trends continue, with an annual growth rate of 2.3%, the national population is estimated to reach 25.8 million in 2050, with a gross density approaching 1000 people/km2 (NISR, General Census, 2022). Based on the general population census, the actual growth rate between 2012 and 2022 has been calculated. The following is used to calculate the growth rate: exponential model equivalent to (Pt=P0ert), where Pt is the projected population for the year, P0 is the base year population, e is the exponential constant equivalent to 2.71828 generally unit less, t is the time in years and r is the annual rate of growth expressed as decimal. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 36 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202559 Sectors Bugeshi Busasamana Cyanzarwe Gisenyi Status of the Sector Rural Rural Rural Urban 2012 2022 29,687 33,892 31,253 40,542 29,615 38,977 Growth rate 2012-2022 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 1.32 2.60 2.75 37,681 40,261 43,018 45,964 49,112 49,925 56,862 64,763 73,763 84,012 48,556 55,705 63,906 73,315 84,108 53,603 51,594 -0.38 50,041 49,094 48,166 47,254 46,360 Kanama Rural & Urban 29,220 37,584 Kanzenze Mudende Rural Rural 21,309 23,127 26,031 32,077 Nyakiriba Rural & Urban 30,068 50,834 Nyamyumba Rural & Urban 37,491 48,718 Nyundo Rubavu Rural & Urban 30,417 42,305 Rural & Urban 42,394 80,107 Rugerero Rural & Urban 42,574 66,926 2.52 0.82 2.09 5.25 2.62 3.30 6.36 4.52 45,969 52,134 59,127 67,057 76,051 24,692 25,724 26,799 27,919 29,086 37,910 42,083 46,715 51,857 57,565 77,374 100,605 130,811 170,086 221,153 60,076 68,483 78,066 88,990 101,444 55,082 64,961 76,610 90,349 106,552 133,279 183,209 251,843 346,188 475,878 96,107 120,498 151,080 189,422 237,496 Total 403,662 546,683 716,693 859,619 1,040,904 1,272,165 1,568,818 Table 3: Projection in normal case for the years 2022 up to 2050 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 37 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202560 b. Population projection using NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines With family planning initiatives, a growth rate of 2% can lead to a population of 22.1 million by 2050, which better fits the impending shortage of land in Rwanda. Nevertheless, though Rwanda’s population age structure has changed remarkably in the last five decades, total fertility rates remain high. According to the NLUDMP 2020-2050 projection, the total population of Rubavu District is estimated to reach 669,730 inhabitants by 3035 and 846,500 by 2050. Out of this, 58.4 % of the total population are expected to live in urban areas by 2035 and 62.2 % of the total population in 2050.To project the population growth in each Sector, the growth percentage was calculated at 1.6%. This equals an average growth rate of 1.6 % per year over the projection period as per below: Sector Bugeshi Busasamana Cyanzarwe Gisenyi Kanama Kanzenze Mudende Nyakiriba Nyamyumba Nyundo Rubavu Rugerero Type of the Sector Pop 2022 Rural & urban Rural Rural District town Rural & urban Rural Rural & urban Rural & urban Rural & urban Rural & urban Rural & urban Rural & urban 33,892 40,542 38,977 51,594 37,584 23,127 32,077 50,834 48,718 42,305 80,107 66,926 546,683 Total HHs 2022 7,853 9,158 8,505 13,229 8,496 5,299 7,460 9,525 10,892 9,468 18,486 15,709 124,080 Pop 2035 29,837 34,338 30,951 131,730 62,215 4,280 25,747 34,367 79,025 24,403 181,796 31,041 669,730 HHs 2035 7,459 8,584 7,738 32,932 15,554 1,070 6,437 8,592 19,756 6,101 45,449 7,760 167,432 Pop 2050 28,040 31,247 28,165 192,632 79,867 3,895 25,163 36,324 100,622 22,206 258,359 39,981 846,500 HHs 2050 7,010 7,812 7,041 48,158 19,967 974 6,291 9,081 25,156 5,552 64,590 9,995 211,625 Table 4: District Population basing on NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 38 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202561 c. Land allocation and population projection In general, when looking at both scenarios, the population in Rubavu is estimated to increase across all sectors; however, in certain circumstances the population shall decrease for some sectors. For instance, the Kanzenze Sector population will decrease as only one settlement is proposed in the DLUP and the land is allocated for forest and livestock zone. Also, the population of Gisenyi Sector is estimated to decrease as they will be transformed from largely residential to commercial. Map 9: Rubavu District population According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, the population will be distributed based on the proposed national settlement hierarchy. For Rubavu District, this translates to Rubavu being identified as a Secondary City and the main urban area in the district, supported by Kabumba Rurban and rural settlements sites across the district. Therefore, the DLUP is based on the lowest population scenario, with a population estimated to be 669,730 by 2035 and 846,500 by 2050. The urban population is estimated to be 576,230 inhabitants in Rubavu Secondary City and 51,381 inhabitants in Kabumba Rurban. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 39 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202562 In summarizing the table showing the projected population of Rubavu District, it is important to highlight the anticipated population distribution by residence. In 2012, the rural population made up 63% of the total population. This decreased to 46.1% in 2022. Future projections suggest a continued decline, with the rural population expected to drop to 35.9 % by 2035 and eventually reach 25.9% by 2050. Population/ Year Total Population District Town Kabumba Rurban Sub-total(urban) Rural population Distict Town(%) Rurban (%) Urban (%) Rural (%) Urban + Rural (%) 2022 2022 2035 2050 Population Number of HHs Population Number of HHs Population Number of HHs Population Number of HHs 403,662 88,849 - - - - 34,199 149,209 254,453 54,650 - - - - 124,080 66,873 2,589 69,462 54,618 669,730 394,050 35,136 429,187 240,543 846,500 576,230 51,381 627,610 218,890 167,432 98,513 8,784 107,297 69,661 211,625 125,000 6,625 131,625 54,722 53.9% 2.1% 56.0% 44.0% 58.8% 5.2% 64.1% 35.9% 100% 68.1% 6.1% 74.1% 25.9% 100% 546,683 283,474 10,974 294,448 252,235 51.9% 2.0% 53.9% 46.1% 100% 37.0% 63.0% 100% 38.5% 61.5% Table 5: Population projection in Rubavu District per residence according to NLUDMP 2020-2050 4.3 Rubavu Urbanization and Rural Settlement Trends Rubavu DLUP caters for the projected urban population to be accommodated within Rubavu District by 2050. The Rubavu Secondary City Master Plan provides a development plan till the year 2035 for the urban areas only. While the DLUP covers land use in the entire District of Rubavu. The proposed land use plan takes into consideration the approved projects and development trends within the Rubavu Secondary City urban boundary, Kabumba Rurban Center and other rural settlement areas, and provides strategic development direction for long, medium and short- term interventions. The proposed zoning plan guides the development within the whole district. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 40 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202563 The hierarchy of urban settlements is determined by their size in terms of population and land area, level of existing infrastructure and services, and the amount of trade and commercial activities prevailing. Within Rubavu District, the existing urban settlements are categorized into three categories: Category 1: Rubavu CBD, ● Rubavu Secondary City is the main urban area and the most developed with regards to physical, social infrastructure and services. In recent years, urbanization has grown beyond the existing city limits and development has sprawled along the Rubavu-Musanze corridor. Category 2: Rugerero, Mahoko Corridor ● The settlements of Rugerero and Mahoko/Kanama have grown rapidly over the past years. They have a subsequent large population cluster with existing trade centers and markets, thus recognized as important nodes after Rubavu City within the district, although these areas are growing in an unplanned way, and in some parts, informal neighborhoods are arising. The categories 1 and 2 are forming the urban area equivalent to Rubavu Secondary City. Category 3: Kabumba Rurban and Kabari, Gasiza and Ryabizige Emerging Centers ● Other than category 1 and 2, the rest of the settlements are mostly rural in nature with little or no infrastructure development with a small scattered population mainly along major roads. The Rurban of Kabumba is currently an emerging centre but potential to grow as an urban settlement. Kabari, Gasiza and Ryabizige Emerging Centers are described as emerging centers because, typically are the part of rural settlement accordindg to settlement hierarchy by NLUDMP, though those areas are experiencing significant growth, development, or transformation, often becoming a focal point for economic, social, or cultural activities important to the district. 4.3.1 Rubavu Secondary City Rubavu Secondary City originally developed into a vacation resort, as the Belgians constructed villas and hotels along the shores of Lake Kivu during the first half of the 20th century. The commercial area was built away from the lakeshore, along with residential areas in its north. The economic heart of the city is within the Gisenyi sector, close to the DRC border and Lake Kivu. The existing main city center has a well-structured urban fabric with shops and services grouped along the street fronts in the center, and residential areas surrounding it. However, unplanned growth and urbanization has resulted in urban sprawl mainly along the two national roads. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 41 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202564 Over the years, there has been an increase in the number of informal settlements within the city. A large number of residents live in low density unplanned areas, and there is a need for affordable housing, commercial developments and formal industrial areas within the city. With limited areas for development, constrained by urban sprawl and challenging topography, the infrastructure and urban development must be carefully planned and implemented to achieve the target densities for Rubavu Secondary City. The city currently has three master plans for Gisenyi / Rubavu, Rugerero, and Mahoko. Map 10: Rubavu District Urban Boundaries 4.3.1.1 Existing Land Use Rubavu Secondary City covers an area of almost 7,000 ha. Within the planning area, there are a series of urban centers combined together. The DLUP aims to develop a single master plan that takes into account the potential fringe areas of the city. Currently, built up area is the leading use in Rubavu Secondary City consuming 56% of the total area, followed by agriculture with 35%, forest covers 7% while waterbody and wetland cover 1% each. During the elaboration of Rubavu DLUP, existing land use played a great role for allocating planned land use in 2050. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 42 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202565 Land Use Agriculture Built up Forest Waterbody Wetland Total Table 6: Secondary City- existing land use Area in Ha 2436.15 3977.73 507.26 36.50 72.95 7030.59 Percentage 35 56 7 1 1 100 Rubavu City is currently experiencing growth in three main directions: a) Along the Rubavu-Musanze corridor b) Along the national road (NR 18) c) Along the lake Kivu, towards the south Rubavu has been facing a noticeable increase in informal settlements, especially in the fringe areas of category 1 and 2 areas. This is due to economic activities and opportunities within these clusters, and spurred by low financial capacity among the residents to purchase or rent land and accommodation within the core areas, thus leading to informal housing. This strategic position of Rubavu City provides opportunities to develop trade at national and international level, to promote private sector investments and expanding urban areas to develop socio- economic infrastructures. As per the census 2012, the current population residing within the 187 villages within the urban boundary of Rubavu City is about 147,000. Sectors Gisenyi Kanama Nyakiriba Nyamyumba Nyundo Rubavu Rugerero Total Villages Area (Sqkm) Urban population Gross density 66 12 9 24 15 22 39 187 11.17 2.05 3.93 10.58 6.96 16.03 18.61 69.32 51,594 16,488 24,385 20,359 16,716 65,895 56,653 252,090 4,883 3,438 2,292 1,742 1,203 1,430 1,420 3,637 Table 7: Existing Sectors within the Rubavu Urban Boundary Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 43 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202566 4.3.1.2 Rubavu Secondary City Proposed Land Use For the Secondary City to accommodate the projected growth, density residential areas are planned at the edges of the city, additionally, high-density residential areas are planned surrounding identified areas susceptible to disaster to encourage sustainability while promoting disaster-resilient built-up areas. For the secondary City to support the cross-border business, the business activities are planned to concentrate near the existing market in the city center. In addition, a special economic zone is planned as well as a mobility system and infrastructures, are planned to facilitate a link between local commercial activities and cross-border businesses. Moreover, the business corridors are planned along the National Roads, and tourism zones and recreation activities are planned along Lake Kivu. The delineated planning area takes into account existing settlements close to Rubavu City which account for a high population density. As urbanization takes place, these villages are expected to grow further hence the importance of having a well-planned strategy for these villages. The proposed planning area consists of 187 villages in total, comprising of Gisenyi (66), Kanama (12), Nyakiriba (9), Nyamyumba (24), Nyundo (15), Rubavu (22), and Rugerero (39). The following photos were taken in the city center of Rubavu during field investigations in June 2022. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 44 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202567 Figure 6: Rubavu Secondary City The zoning map indicates the specific boundaries of the various zones proposed for the City of Rubavu. These boundaries are defined and demarcated based on the following principles: • • • To ensure a high degree of mix of uses in the city. To ensure a Transport-Oriented Development (TOD) to promote urban mobility. To ensure that there are no conflicting land uses in neighboring zones. The following are the various zoning categories and sub-categories proposed for Rubavu Secondary City: Figure 7: Rubavu DLUP proposed zoning categories Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 45 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202568 The following map is providing more details on the zoning plan for Rubavu Secondary City as the main urban area in Rubavu District as approved by the District Council. Map 11: Zoning Plan for Rubavu Urban Boundaries (Secondary City) 4.3.1.3 Kabumba Rurban Center Kabumba Rurban Center is an emerging center located in Bugeshi and Mudende Sectors, to be developed to provide a linkage between rural and urban areas. Historically, Kabumba was a forested area with a few residents. The center emerged as a result of trade, as women started selling sorghum, beer (Ikigage) and fruits. The small selling point was called “Agasasangutiya”. Later, there was a man and famous fighter in Agasasangutiya called Kabumba. As people started migrating from the regions of Murera and Ruhengeri for security, the area grew and has taken the name of ”Kabumba”as well as “Kabumba Market”. NLUDMP 2020-2050 has identified Kabumba as the Rurban Settlement in the district. The following has been taken into consideration for the urban planning of Kabumba Rurban Center: (i) (ii) Existing and emerging trading centers; High pressure of growing residential settlement; (iii) Geographic location; Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 46 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202569 (iv) Existing and developing infrastructure (e.g. roads, water supply, electricity, and healthcare and education facilities) Map 12: Location of Kabumba Rurban Center in Rubavu District a) Existing land use in Kabumba Rurban Center Kabumba Rurban Center is largely rural in character and scale. It has developed in a linear pattern, with settlements grouped in clusters and with few scattered houses. Land is mainly used for agriculture and forest, housing, education facilities and transportation. The area is accessed by road networks including District Road Class 1, District Road Class 2 and other unclassified roads. Not all roads are paved. The main center is split between the sectors of Bugeshi and Mudende. Kabumba has access to basic utilities such as water and electricity. There is no sewage system and access to the internet is lacking. Except for a small dumping site located near to Kabumba Market, there is no designated landfill. There are ECD Kabumba and GS Kabumba as education facilities. Due to the absence of secondary education and TVET, GS Kabumba is proposed to be extended and upgraded to include secondary Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 47 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202570 education and TVET. There is also a need to upgrade the Gashaka health post, located in Mutovu cell, Bugeshi Sector to serve the entire Rurban. There is a mix of housing typologies in the rurban and the most common plot size is 300 m3 (15x20 m). Gashaka and Mutovu Cells are the most attractive areas for residential development due to its proximity to Kabumba Market. Additionally, public facilities such as religious facilities include, ADPR Kabumba and Kabumba Mosque and there is no existing land designated for playground. Currently, agriculture in Kabumba rurban covers 59.1 %, forest 1.4% and Built up covers 39.4% of the total area of the rurban. Land Use Agriculture Built up Forest Total Table 8: Kabumba Rurban , land use balance sheet. Area in Ha 492.074 328.0854 11.80824 831.9675 Percentage 59.14581 39.43487 1.419315 100 Map 13: Existing Land Use in Kabumba Rurban Center Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 48 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202571 b) Proposed land use in Kabumba Rurban Center Kabumba Rurban Center is proposed to support the City of Rubavu with all required basic facilities and utilities to accommodate the projected population with all residential and commercial features. The zoning plan for Kabumba Rurban has been organized into two sections. Two commercial center nodes have been designated: one situated in the central-northern region near the existing market in the Kabumba sector, and the other positioned in the southern area of the Rurban. Public facilities are also distributed across those two nodes: one in the northeast and the other in the southwest. A blend of high-density residential areas is located at the center of the Rurban, while rural residential zones are planned along the outskirts. Based on Kabumba proposed land use Balance sheet, residential is the leading land use with 53.8%, followed by urban agriculture covering 22.3% of the total area of Kabumba Rurban. The following table tabulates the allocation of land use in 2050 in Kabumba rurban. Land Use Agriculture Commercial Forest Industrial Open space Public administration Public Facility Public Utility Residential Transportation Total Table 9: Kabumba proposed land use Balance sheet Area in Ha 186.1 27.9 34.1 2.6 7.7 36.1 16.1 2.3 447.6 70.9 831.9 Percentage 22.3 3.3 4.1 0.3 0.9 4.3 1.9 0.2 53.8 8.5 100 A waste dump site is proposed near formal Mudende University to serve as a waste transfer station for the Rurban neighborhoods and surrounding areas. Moreover, a new health center will be built in the Mudende Sector as recommended by NLUDMP 2020-2050, and a second hospital planned for the district is recommended to be built in this Rurban center to improve access to healthcare facilities for residents in the northwest part of the district. For recreational and open space, a new playground is proposed located West-Central of the Rurban. A taxi parking station is proposed to be located by middle of commercial center near business activities, to facilitate public transport and commercial exchange. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 49 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202572 Map 14: Proposed land use in Kabumba Rurban Center Source: Updated by NLA & Rubavu District, July 2022 4.3.2 Rural Settlements in Rubavu District 4.3.2.1 Rural Settlement Sites Rubavu District has 83 rural settlement sites, most of which have access to both electricity and water utilities. However, electricity is mostly distributed along the roads and to households within the village centers. The district is distributing off-grid electricity (solar) for scattered households through Rwanda Universal Energy Access program currently being implemented. Even if sites have access to water, water kiosks are few compared to the number of residents and often scattered with more than 500m. Therefore, new servicing water kiosks are required to be well distributed within each rural settlement site. The following table is providing more information on the rural settlement sites across all sectors of Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 50 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202573 Sectors Number of Rural Settlement Sites Bugeshi Busasamana Cyanzarwe Kanama Kanzenze Mudende Nyakiriba Nyamyumba Nyundo Rubavu Rugerero Total Table 10: Selected Rural Settlement Sites in Rubavu District 6 11 10 5 3 11 6 13 14 3 1 83 The rural settlement sites lack solid waste disposal sites like waste dump sites. Organic waste is often collected on private farms to be used as fertilizers. Most rural settlement sites have existing education facilities, of which some are in need of refurbishment based on the guidelines of maximum 24 classes per school and 35 students per class as recommended by NLUDMP 2020-2050. Each site, to be more efficient, must have Early Children Development (ECD) as well as a health post. The rural settlement sites lack access to internet services. Citizens are using commercial centers for their daily shopping, only a few sites have access to formal local markets or selling points. Access to public cemeteries is still a critical issue in Rubavu District. Many burials still take place at the private home or farm. Currently, 22 sites have access to a cemetery. Therefore, the new site for cemetery were recommended by this DLUP Existing emerging centers have been identified across the whole district and categorized as presented in the following table Category 1: sites to be upgraded and integrated into Rubavu Secondary City and Kabumba Rurban. Category 2: sites to remain as rural settlement sites and converted either into mixed commercial zone (C1) or residential zone, depending on characteristics and suitability. Category 3: Rural settlement sites with major emerging centres namely Kabari, Gasiza and Ryabizige. These sites are are described as emerging centers, since those areas are experiencing significant growth, and commercial activities that are significant to the to the district. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 51 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202574 No Sectors Emerging Centers 1 Gisenyi The whole Sector is urbanized 2 Rubavu Centres of Buhuru, Karukogo and Kanembwe 3 Rugerero Centres of Rugerero, Cyanika, Gisa, Basa, Kiraro cy'abashinwa 4 Busasamana Centres of Gasiza, Mpuzamahanga, Makoro, Nyacyonga and Gisangani 5 Kanama Centers of Mahoko, Nkomane, Rusongati, Karambo, Kamuhoza and Yungwe 6 Nyakiriba Centers of Bisizi, Kanyefurwe, Bazirete 7 Nyamyumba Centers of Brasserie, Shusho, Kabiza, Gatyazo, Maison aand Busoro Centers of Kanyungo, Gahenerezo, Kisangani, Kabumba, Gasyata, 8 Mudende Gaharawe/bihungwe, Gaharawe/ndoranyi, Bamboneyubusa, Masanga, Chadi and Monako 9 Bugeshi Centers of Kabumba, Butaka, Buringo and Gihangali 10 Kanzenze Centers of Kabari, Mizingo and Kabere 11 Cyanzarwe Centers of Ryabizige, Ntago, Busigali, Rwanzekumpa and Gora 12 Nyundo Centers of Terimbere, Kiziguro, Mukondo, Bahimba, Gatovu, Kigarama and Kavomo Table 11: Emerging Centers of Rubavu District The Assessment of the existing trading centres allows allocating land for commercial activities as well as aim as key components for in settlement prioritizations. The following map shows the existing trading centres across the district. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 52 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202575 Map 14: Distribution of Trade Centers in Rubavu District 4.3.2.2 Infrastructure planning in rural settlements According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, 145 rural settlement sites covering 60 km2 were identified and delineated in the district. Of these, 83 rural settlement sites have been established in the DLUP. This due to priority sites have been chosen among others based on development trends, the presence of existing infrastructures, and physical attributes such as topography and size. Additionally, some sites have been amalgamated to create larger areas, thereby forming unified development zones. Out of 83 sites, 60 have access to potable water, and 64 sites have access to electricity. Only 46 sites have access to healthcare facilities. Most sites have access to education facilities, and all 83 sites have access to primary and secondary schools. Landfill sites have been proposed at sector level which will serve all sites within the respective sector. Cowsheds are not sufficient within the selected rural settlement sites, which will be proposed and improved during the elaboration of detailed site plans for each settlement. A few of the sites have multipurpose halls which should be upgraded to the recommended standard. In most sites, village meetings are still organized and held under trees, at cell offices, or at playgrounds. Therefore, additional local markets and selling points are proposed to be developed within the sites. In addition, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 53 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202576 existing playgrounds are in need of refurbishment and to be upgraded according to the recommended standard. All 83 rural settlement sites have access to religious facilities. N0 Utilities and Infrastructures Yes 1 2 Access Roads Electricity 3 Water 4 5 6 7 8 9 healthcare facilities Primary School Secondary School Churches TVET School Cemetery 10 Temporal dump sites 11 Playground 83 64 60 46 83 83 83 12 22 o 17 No 83 19 23 37 83 83 83 71 61 83 66 Proposed 0 19 23 7 0 0 0 0 8 4 6 Table 12: Tabulating rural settlement sites access to facilities, services and utilities The above table show existing infrastructure, and a plan where there is a gap in infrastructures accessibility. However, this plan does not include some infrastructure within certain settlements, as these facilities are located nearby and can be easily accessed from neighboring settlements. For instance, as per NLUDMP, healthcare facilities are recommended for each settlement site, yet this DLUP has proposed only 7 out of the required 37, as other settlements can readily access these facilities. 4.3.3 NLUDMP 2020-2050 National Directives vs Rubavu DLUP 2022-2050 alignment Changes have been observed in the settlement boundaries initially proposed by the NLUDMP. This is due to the incorporation of participatory planning principles during the DLUP development. This participatory method led to adjustments that are supporting Rubavu's vision of becoming an agricultural hub, promoting lakeshore tourism, and enhancing cross-border trade for a sustainable, green district. The following table provides remarks on the observed changes about the DLUP proposal vs NLUDMP 2020-2050 proposals. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 54 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202577 NLUDMP 2020-2050 directives DLUP 2023-2050 proposals Nbr Area in Area in 2035 (km2 ) 2050 (km2 ) Population 2022 (2050) Settlement type Rubavu Secondary City 1 34 61 283,474 (500,000) 1 Nbr Area in 2050 (km2 ) 70.3 Population 2050 576,230 The Rubavu Secondary City boundary goes beyond NLUDMP 2020-2050 directives. This as inside the urban boundary, there are other land uses in addition to residential and commercial use to support the urban development. Additionally, some areas of the Rubavu and Nyamyumba sectors have been incorporated into the city boundaries to facilitate a tourism development plan. This expansion aims to support the district's vision of enhancing lakeshore tourism. Therefore, out of 70.3 km2 of the total area planned for the Secondary City, only 20.4 km2 is land zoned for residential use to accommodate the projected population of Rubavu Secondary City. Rurbans 2 N/A 4.2 24,657 2 8.3 51,381 The total area of Rurban Centre in Rubavu District surpasses the guidelines established by the NLUDMP 2020- 2050. This expansion is necessary to accommodate populations relocating from rural areas, as the DLUP predicts a reduction in rural settlement areas. Moreover, as within the boundary, there are other land uses in addition to residential use to support the growth of the areas including public facilities, forests, wetlands, agriculture, open spaces, and commercial zones. Thus, out of the 8.3 km2 planned for Rurban Centers, only 4.4 km2 of the land is allocated for residential use, to accommodate the projected population. Urban Areas 3 N/A 65.2 524657 3 78.6 627,610 Rural settlement sites 145 N/A 60 320,000 79 35.68 320,000 The number of rural settlement sites as recommended by NLUDMP 2020-2050 have been reduced to 83 sites. Some rural settlement sites were removed due to environmental constraints (flooding and landslides), others were merged to create a large, cohesive area for agriculture, to support the vision of Rubavu District of becoming an Table 13: NLUDMP 2020-2050 National directives vs Rubavu DLUP 2022-2050 alignment agricultural hub. In 2035, a revision of the DLUP is recommended in order to reassess settlements, potentially leading to adjustments in the size or number, either by increasing or decreasing them as necessary, while taking into consideration the NLUDMP 2020-2050’s flexibility on proposal of 10% change in settlement boundaries. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 55 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202578 4.4 Housing Development in Rubavu District 4.4.1 Existing housing development Housing structure is unique to both the northern and southern parts of Rubavu District. In the northeastern part of the district, including the sectors of Bugeshi, Mudende, Cyanzarwe, and Busasamana, the area is rich in volcanic soil. As a result, housing materials such as sand and soil for bricks are sourced from the southern part of the district. Moreover, stones or timber are often used as source of construction material in these regions. Timber walls are not common in the southern part of the district. However, the southern parts of the district are suitable for housing in general due to access to building materials such as soil and stones. Timber, bricks and burned bricks, stone for walls, iron and tile sheets for roofs are predominant as well as steel and timber for openings (doors and windows). Mud brick is not common as building material as it is not locally available, and therefore relatively expensive. As Rubavu District is located in a hilly area also affected by volcanic eruptions, buildings are often constructed on shallow foundations which require limited earth works. The predominant typology are detached and semi-detached buildings, commonly used for residential, commercial, office, religious and educational purposes. Rural houses constructed using local materials (May/June 2022). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 56 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202579 Timber houses with stone foundations (May/June 2022). Timber buildings with stone foundations (May/June 2022). Figure 8: Existing housing structures in Rubavu District Residential land use is the largest land consumer in every settlement. Therefore, it is essential to base future demands on desired and sustainable housing typologies to accommodate the future population of Rubavu District. Thus a variety of housing types, sizes, and tenure forms are important. The NLUDMP 2020-2050 provides the following guidelines for residential development within the district: ▪ Housing typologies including spatial and architectural parameters; ▪ Spatial distribution of housing types per settlement structure, for maximum suitability and densification; ▪ Provide different housing types, based on estimated population; ▪ Establish the land requirements for residential areas by 2050; ▪ Extrapolating the land requirements for residential areas to land requirements for entre cities; In accordance with NLUDMP 2020-2050, mixed-use urban developments are promoted. Various functions, e.g. residential, commercial, cultural, and institutional, should ideally be developed within Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 57 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202580 the same block or building. In addition, social segregation should be mitigated by promoting mixed- income developments whereby low, medium and high-income earners reside in the same area or neighborhood. 4.4.2 Existing informal settlement Globally, the urbanization trend is strong. By 2030, all developing regions, including Africa and specifically Rwanda, will have more people living in urban than rural areas. Linked to rapid and unplanned urbanization, is the proliferation of informal settlements. In the Rwandan context, “informal settlement” is defined as residential buildings built on “planned” and “unplanned” areas which do not have formal planning approval. They are often characterized by temporary housing constructions, with lack of or inadequate infrastructure and social services. In addition, the residents within the informal areas often lack formal property rights. As the City of Rubavu is rapidly urbanizing, there is a challenge to improve living conditions and provide services for the urban poor. Existing informal settlements within the City of Rubavu impacts the sustainability, resilience and urban planning of the city. A project to upgrade the informal settlements in Rubavu Secondary City is a key priority of the district to improve the livelihood of the urban dwellers and protect the urban environment to achieve “Green City Development”. Rubavu City and the related government institutions, through partnership, are planning to upgrade the informal settlement zones by improving the wellbeing of the residents and the cleanness of the local environment. The main objective of the project of “Upgrading Rubavu Informal Settlement” is to improve housing, public and community health, safety and security, and to promote local economic development and poverty reduction by providing access to basic infrastructure and services. The specific focus of the project is to: Improve housing typologies. ✔ Provide basic facilities, services and infrastructure (e.g. roads, drainage, water and sanitation, ✔ waste management) Promote job creation for local economic development. ✔ Mainstream the city beautification, environmental and climate resilient interventions for ✔ "Green City Development". Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 58 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202581 Prior to upgrading any informal settlements, Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) should be conducted to establish both social and environmental impacts while encouraging stakeholder engagement. 4.4.3 Proposed Housing development Housing is the largest land consumer both in urban and rural settlement. Therefore, it is essential to base the future demands on desired and sustainable housing types that fit the lifestyle of future Rwandans. Within this context, the size, model, and tenure of dwelling needed for 2050 are essential. Six purposes drive this section: • Characterization of housing types in 2050 by spatial and architectural parameters • Match housing types with settlement categories, for maximum suitability. • Assessment of the demands for housing types, based on population targets in each district • Measurements of land requirements for residential areas by 2050 • Extrapolating the land requirements for residential areas to land requirements for entire cities. • Feeding all this information into NLUDMP 2020-2050, making room for settlements of all kinds. The target in the housing sector is a steady annual increase of building on one hand and access to housing mortgages on the other hand. A second target is to develop new local construction materials and housing typologies. The achievement of these targets will be the backbone for the roll-out of affordable and decent housing countrywide. NLUDMP 2020-2050 recommends considering mixed- use urban development in which a real estate in a city or suburb can blend different functions such as residential, commercial, cultural, institutional, etc. into one block. Five housing categories were proposed to be considered by local-level planning to achieve the desired consolidation and agglomeration as presented in the following figure. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 59 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202582 Figure 9 : Dwelling units needed in Rwanda by 2050- Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 4.4.4 Proposed Housing stock in Rubavu District The NLUDMP proposes that given the future demographic trends and the high housing needs that require a large housing stock and space, it is strongly recommended to develop vertical housing infrastructure in urban and rural areas in the form of multi-family apartments and socio-economic infrastructure. As presented on the figure 8 above, the NLUDMP 2020-2050 recommends A+, A, B, C, D. as housing typologies to achieve the optimal and efficient use of land in Rwanda. These typologies have been translated into more comprehensive residential and housing typologies, as established by Land use and zoning regulations to guide the development of residential areas across the country. Thus, the DLUP implemented NLUDMP proposed densification by grouping them into different residential categories as Low density (R1, R1A), Medium density (R1B, R2 & R3) and High density (R4). Housing /NLUDMP DU/ha Related Zone/DLUP R1 Densities 10-15. A+ 24 R1A 20-30 A 40 R1B B 48 R1B 30-70 40-70 Lot size -M2 500 (G+2+P max) 300 (G+2+P max) 150 (G+2 max) 150 (G+2 max) Table 14: Residential zone categories with respective densification. Source: Land use plans zoning regulations, 2022 D 90 R4 90+n 750 G+n Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 60 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202583 According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, by 2050, Rubavu District will host 211,625 dwelling units whereby 125,000 dwelling units will be hosted in Rubavu secondary City, 6,625 dwelling units in Rurban Centers, and 80,000 dwelling units in rural settlement sites. To comply with NLUDMP 2020-2050 directives of dwelling units to be hosted in 2050, proposed dwelling units were calculated based on land allocated for residential zones in urban, rurban and rural settlements areas. As highlighted in the table below, dwelling units are presented as per residential category to clearly indicate the areas that will be reserved for residential zones. In urban areas, based on projections of Households as per NLUDM 2020-2050, Rubavu District will have 190,597 dwelling units by 2050 and as there will be a movement of people from rural areas to urban areas. In rural settlement sites particularly, NLUDMP projected 80,000 dwelling units by 2050. However, DLUP plan to reduce Rural area while promoting agriculture, and as it is proposed by the NLUDMP 2020-2050, the process of restructuring the Imidugudu system into organized clusters will need to be undertaken continuously throughout the next 30 years. Thus, people will move progressively from rural areas to urban areas looking for employment opportunities in urban areas. Therefore, the total of 53,988 dwelling units (Minimum density) are reserved fopr Rural areas and will be decreased progressively, as a result of the migration of people from rural areas to urban areas, which will be assessed during the revision of DLUP in 2035 to determine whether residential areas previously occupied by those who will move to urban areas can be dedicated to agriculture zones. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 61 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202584 Settlement category Number of DU by 2050 (NLUDMP 2020-2050) Residential categories Area (Ha) Number of DU (min. density) % of Areas Secondary City 125,000 Sub-Total Rurbans 6,625 Sub-Total Sub-Total 131,625 Rural settlements 80,000 R1 R1A R1B R2 R3 R4 C1 C3 R1 R1A R1B R3 R4 C1 R1 R1A R1B R3 R4 43.59 479.27 520.49 203.48 701.33 92.79 288.78 57.81 2,388 31.9 208.1 112.6 95.1 - 27.97 476 2,863 18.48 76.33 2,623 8.17 1.28 436 9,585 20,820 12,209 42,080 8,351 22,236 4,047 119,764 319 4,162 4,506 5,705 - 2,154 16,845 136,609 184.82 1,527 52,462 490.04 115.57 Sub-Total Total 211,625 2,727 5,591 53,988 190,597 0.45 9.79 23.40 13.30 45.86 7.20 100.00 2.05 26.81 31.93 39.20 - 100.00 1.31 98.69 0.31 0.08 100 Table 15: Housing Stock/Proposed Residential zones and Number of Dwelling units Source: Data analysis, NLA, April, 2023 4.4.5 Proposed housing typologies Beside single story or multi story, housing typologies are generally classified as single family or multi- family housing. To increase residential density, and enable effective use of land, an increase in the number of stories in combination with prescribing multi-family housing is often adopted. In line with the national zoning guidelines, various residential zones are proposed based on location, character, and scale of the residential area. Low Density Residential Zone (R1) The R1 zone is intended for single family housing, e.g. stand alone villa or bungalow, and complementary commercial and public facilities as needed. The zoning is limited to existing Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 62 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202585 consolidated areas with the objective of limiting low-density urban development and encouraging compact and dense developments. In all R1 zones, R1A regulations are permitted (see R1A). Maximum plot size is 500m2. For plots bigger than 500m2, existing developments can retain their use. For plots less than 300m2, R1A regulations shall apply. The maximum number of stories allowed are three (3) plus penthouse, equalling ground, first, second floor and penthouse (G+2+P). For single family use a density of maximum 15 DU/Ha is allowed. For mixed-use developments a density of maximum 10 DU/Ha is allowed. Figure 10: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1). Low Density Residential Densification Zone (R1A) The R1A zone is intended for low density residential areas and low-density densification zones. The purpose is to promote more efficient use of land in prime locations of the urban areas by allowing for intensification and mix of uses within the existing low-density housing development. Within the R1A zone, all types of single-family houses are allowed including stand alone, semi-detached, townhouses and row houses, as well as multi-family housing. In addition, complementary commercial and public facilities are allowed as needed. Prescribed plot size, maximum 300m2, is smaller than in the Low-Density Residential Zone (R1) to distinguish the R1A zone as a higher density low rise residential area. The maximum number of stories allowed are three (3), equalling ground, first and second floor (G+2). For single family use a density of maximum 30 DU/Ha is allowed. For mixed-use developments a density of maximum 20 DU/Ha is allowed. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 63 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202586 This zone is applied on Rubavu district in Rurban and rural communities near the major emerging centers to allow densification larger than R1B. However, in the urban areas, this zone is mostly in undeveloped areas of the Secondary City. Figure 11: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1A). Rural Residential Zone (R1B) The R1B residential zone enables compact developments in rural areas. The zoning is intended to offer low-rise housing as part of the farming community, and complementary public facilities as needed. This zone is mostly proposed in Rural settlement areas for the purpose is to create sustainable and compact residential neighborhoods in the rural areas of the city, limiting encroachment towards agricultural land or other land uses. Within the R1B zone, all types of single family houses are allowed including stand alone, semi-detached, townhouses and row houses, as well as multi-family housing as per the IDP Model Villages. In line with the NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines and zoning regulations, maximum plot size is 300m2 for single family housing and 500 m2 for multi-family housing. The maximum number of stories allowed are three (3) plus penthouse, equalling ground, first, second floor and penthouse (G+2+P). For single family use a density of maximum 30 DU/Ha is allowed. For mixed-use developments a density of maximum 20 DU/Ha is allowed. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 64 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202587 Figure 12: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1B). Figure 13: Illustration, single family house on individual plot (R1B). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 65 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202588 Medium Density Residential – Improvement Zone (R2) The R2 residential zone is intended for upgrading of informal settlements or redevelopment of urban renewal areas, wherever feasible in brownfield sites. A variety in housing typologies and developments are encouraged, intended to stimulate the upgrading, redevelopment, and densification of these areas. Standalone single family housing is however not allowed. The objective is to improve the overall physical appearance of the area as well as improve living conditions for residents. By enabling upgrades in the short term, and redevelopment through land assembly in the medium-long term, developable land in prime areas of the city can be better utilized to create integrated and affordable neighborhoods and provide adequate infrastructure and public facilities. In the Rubavu district, R2 zoning is mostly concentrated within informal settlement areas surrounding the existing commercial zones for future facilitation of the upgrading projects.. Within the R2 zone, multi-family housing as well as single family row houses are allowed. In addition, complementary commercial and public facilities are allowed as needed. The maximum plot size for single family housing (rowhouse) is 200m2. For apartment buildings, no maximum plot size is prescribed. The maximum number of stories allowed are four (4), equalling ground, first, second and third floor (G+3). One (1) extra floor may be permitted if allowed by topographical conditions. For single family use a density of maximum 100 DU/Ha is allowed. For mixed-use developments a density of maximum 70 DU/Ha is allowed. Figure 14: Illustration, apartment building (R2) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 66 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202589 Medium Density Residential – Expansion Zone (R3) The R3 residential zone allows for densification and redevelopment of peri-urban and green field areas and a variety of housing typologies. The zoning is intended to stimulate development of low-cost incremental housing, to facilitate the provision of affordable housing dedicated to the low-income segment of the population. To ensure a mix of use and mix of income, several housing typologies are allowed including self-build to cater for the lowest income segment. The R3 zones are located in peri-urban areas. Within the R3 zone, multi-family housing as well as single family row houses are allowed. In addition, complementary commercial and public facilities are allowed as needed. The maximum plot size for single family incremental housing is 100m2, and 150m2 for rowhouses) is 200m2. For apartment buildings, no maximum plot size is prescribed. The maximum number of stories allowed are four (4), equalling ground, first, second and third floor (G+3). One (1) extra floor may be permitted if allowed by topographical conditions. For single family use a density of maximum 90 DU/Ha is allowed. For mixed-use developments a density of maximum 70 DU/Ha is allowed. In all R3 Zones, R2 regulations are permitted. In Rubavu District, R3 zone is substantially allocated in both Rubavu Secondary City and the Rurban area. This allocation is intended to facilitate the accommodation of the projected population in the Rurban areas while also encouraging sustainable land use practices and densification throughout the district. Figure 15: Illustration, apartment building (R3) High-Density Residential Zone (R4) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 67 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202590 The R4 residential zoning intends to create medium-rise housing and multi-family buildings (apartment complexes) with integrated commercial and public facilities, and open space. To promote high-density residential mixed-use neighborhoods with green character, the plot sizes are bigger compared to the Medium Density Residential Zone (R3). Minimum plot size prescribed is 750m2. For plots below 750m2, R2 regulations shall apply. In Rubavu R4 zone is applied in small portion areas of the Secondary City to allow growing appartement complex for business purpose or as part of social housing. Particular zoning is planed aproximity to the area identified as disaster susceptible zone to aims to encourage densification, sustainable land use practices, and the development of disaster-resilient built-up areas as well as allowing relocatigon of building spread in the disaster prone areas. Figure 16: Illustration: Apartment building (R4) Rubavu proposed Green Building Development The district must promote the development of ‘green buildings’ in order to support green growth strategies and climate resilience, and to grow as a tourism destination. According to the Rwanda Green Building Minimum Compliance System, the following are general components for ‘green buildings’: • Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation: Optimizing energy and water resources minimizes the use of natural resources and decreases water and energy expenditure. • Improved Indoor Air Quality: Natural ventilation and external sun shading reduces the need for air-conditioning. • Reduced Carbon Footprint: By considering the carbon footprint throughout the lifecycle span of the building, from construction to demolition, less waste and harmful gasses are generated. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 68 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202591 • Promotion of sustainable construction materials: the concept of green building promotes the adoption of building designs, construction practices and materials that are environmentally friendly. It is advised that District OSC staff are trained on the concept of green building developments to promote sustainable urban development. The following Building are recommended to be constructed in accordance to the Green Building components & certification: • Building category 4 and 5 • Buildings for all development projects • Commercial Building • Buildings based on tourism • Residential Houses to be built in R3 & R4 zoning Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 69 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202592 4.4.6 Densification for Rural Settlement Site For improving the settlement, the standardized roads are planned as well as replotting strategies for right conversion to be carried out for each plot to access roads. Moreover, the green spaces are planted along the roads and commercial center to be developed in the central part of the site. Map 15: Tagaza Zoning Plan. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 70 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202593 Map 16: Tagaza Rural Settlement Urban Design. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 71 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202594 To enhance densification, the designated residential area will undergo systematic replotting, Infrastructure upgrades and the construction of high-density buildings planned for the northern and southern parts of the site. Source: NLA & Rubavu District Team, July 2022 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 72 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202595 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 73 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202596 Source: NLA & Rubavu District Team, July 2022 4.4.7 Kabumba Rurban Urban Design To grow Kabumba from an emerging center into a dynamic Rurban hub that supports secondary city by providing basic urban services and accomodating growing population, the following key initiatives will be implemented: A. Development of a vibrant cultural hub: This entails the establishment of a Culture Center featuring a multipurpose ground and diverse cultural activities. Additionally, a Youth Center and a Multipurpose Hall will be constructed to cater to the needs of the community. B. Modernization of commercial infrastructure: The existing market will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to transform it into a contemporary shopping complex, facilitating various services for both agriculture and non-agriculture-based product as well as accommodating light industries, with emphasis on showcasing unique handcrafted products to meet the demands of the local population. Furthermore, a new commercial center will be established along the District Roads near Mudende Sector, enhancing commercial interactions and serving nearby settlements with emphasis on agriculture bases products. C. Urban densification and health environment: The existing residential will be maintained but to be expanded with a priorit of densification towards the outskirts of Rurban. Greening initiatives will be implemented by strategically planting trees within each residentail plots and along roadsides, for enhancing the aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability of the area. Furthermore, a stormwater network for the identified main grainage will be constructed and maintenance of a waste transfer Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 74 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202597 station will be required,. This will goes together with efficient waste collection service system within the Rurban area. Illustration, residential neighbourhood in Kabumba Rurban. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 75 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202598 Illustration, playgrounds are necessary to promote wellbeing and social interaction. It should be a multi-sport facility, offering opportunities to play football, handball, volleyball, and more. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 76 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/202599 Illustration: open spaces are important public spaces to encourage social interaction, provide space for recreation and events. 4.4.8 Rubavu Secondary City Urban Design The urban design proposals for Rubavu Secondary City aims to transform the city to become the "Cross Border Trade and Tourism Gateway of Rwanda: a Vibrant and Happy City". Various urban design interventions illustrate possibilities that may emerge as a result of the economic growth in the next 30 years. The urban design methodology is to 1) identify key assets within Rubavu City; 2) identify urban issues and opportunities around the key assets; and 3) propose urban design interventions targeted at providing solutions to develop and enhance unique characteristics of Rubavu City. Urban Design Structure To create a positive and thriving urban realm, it is necessary for urban design to be people oriented. The proposed structure plan is based on the opportunities and constraints put forward by the community itself. Along with addressing the city requirements, the urban design interventions intends to boost tourism by: – – – Diversifying tourism products; Providing Beyond-the-Gorillas experience; Curating the commercial programs through tourism. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 77 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025100 The urban design strategy is to connect various assets and opportunities identified. Seemingly fragmented areas of Rubavu Secondary City will be connected through place making, to not only connect physical elements of the city but also emotional and cultural aspects of the city. Three urban design areas - the market street area, the civic and commercial area, and the waterfront - have been identified and potential projects have been outlined based on the issues and opportunities identified, the land available and implementability based on land ownership and existing developments. AREAS PROJECTS Memorable Cross Border 1. Market Street Landmark Project 2. Market Street One-way Project 3. Warehouse, Hotel Project and Industrial Park Link to the Mountain 4. CBD Office Cluster Project 5. Rubavu High Street Project 6. Hillside Redevelopment Project Pedestrian Friendly CBD 7. Mixed Use Redevelopment Project 8. CBD Landmark Project New Transport Hub 9. New Transport Hub Project Campus Like Civic Area 10. Gisenyi Hospital Redevelopment Project 11. Gisenyi Catholic Parish Pedestrian Linkage Project Vibrant Waterfront 12. Waterfront Commercial Development Destinations Project 13. Coastal Park Projec Table 16: List of Urban Design Projects in Rubavu Secondary City Elements of Urban Design The following are important elements of urban design to be considered in the Central Business District of Rubavu Secondary City: – – – Parcellation Plan; Ground Floor Use; Building Edges; Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 78 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025101 – – – – Public Space; Parking and Vehicular Ingress- Egress; Building Setbacks; Building Heights. Streetscape Guidelines Streets comprise the majority of the public space within cities, and form the backbone of the public space network in any urban area. Thus, it is crucial to pay attention to the design of these valuable assets and their contributions to the public realm. Walkable and bikeable spaces allow for more interactions and exchanges among city residents. Proposing shared use and active streets in the urban design area will act as a pilot for future street developments. The street design guidelines address the elements that form part of the street to establish accessibility, character, activities and functions of the street. Street elements such as greenery, shade, lighting, benches, footpaths, cycle tracks, and bus stops all add to the attractiveness of the streetscape. Public activities should be integrated to increase the level of activity within the streetscape, such as incorporating outdoor seating areas, selling points, play areas and parklets. Universal access is essential to ensure seamless connectivity and equal access for all. Non-motorized transport, i.e. walking and cycling, should be prioritized in all urban areas. Urban Design Proposals • Market Street Landmark Project This project aims to create a commercial destination with an attractive market street, pocket parks and street plazas. Tentative programmes are food and beverage, a visitors' center, a local food center, a fresh market, and a handicraft center. The street has tremendous potential to be revitalized as a tourism gateway and become one of the main attractions in Rubavu Secondary. The area is located next to the checkpoint which is the main pedestrian gateway between the cities of Goma and Rubavu. The strategic location comprises the existing residential developments and single story streetside retail shops. The site has a significant potential to set the positive image of Rubavu Secondary City for residents and tourists alike. Through the proposed design intervention, the existing street and market stalls can be revitalized and the area optimized to utilize the strategic location by the checkpoint. Implementation can be incremental, as most of the parcels are sized to be developed individually. The proposed zoning is Mixed Use Commercial Zone (C1). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 79 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025102 • Market Street one-way Project By converting an existing two-way street to a one-way street, a nearly 2.7 km long urban streetscape can be developed, prioritizing walking and cycling, and incorporating commercial and public activities within the public realm. As the local government has an aspiration to implement a citywide non- motorized transportation (NMT) network in the district, this project can be implemented as one of the first NMT links in Rubavu. Connecting to Petit Barriere, the pedestrian gateway of Rubavu, the street will be a showcase of Rubavu Secondary City as a Green and Sustainable City. The street is approximately 12-14 m wide (ROW), with 2 m wide sidewalks on both sides of the carriageway. Developments along the street are encouraged to have commercial and public use in the ground floor, such as retail and food and beverage as well as bicycle parking facilities. Planting boxes are proposed to separate motorized and non-motorized traffic and to provide a safe cycling environment. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 80 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025103 • Warehouse and Hotel Project The project aims to provide warehouses, hotels and retail shops. The project site, owned by Rubavu Military and Police Camp, is located next to Gisenyi Airport and Market Street. The site is strategically located 800 meters from the cross border point, Petit Barriere, 500 meters from the existing bus terminal and 900 meters from the new bus terminal. This is a greenfield development meant to capitalize on the cross border business between Rubavu and Goma. The project has a potential to provide programmes similar to the Rubavu Cross-Border market which opened in March 2019. Further to the functional benefit, this project also aims to establish new developments along the street to mark the eastern entry point to the market street. The site is 1.8 Ha, and the proposed zoning is Mixed Use Commercial Zone (C1). • CBD Office Cluster Project Development of a new office cluster which anchors the pedestrian corridor from Rubavu Mountain and Rubavu Market. The 1.2 Ha site is located across from Gisenyi New Mall, with one storey retail developments along the Avenue de l’ Umuganda and a large piece of underutilized land behind the retail development with a school. Currently, the open land is not visible from the street due to the retail developments. The site is one of the largest empty land located in the heart of the CBD. Located at the western end of the proposed Gisenyi High Street, the site has significant potential to draw crowds from CBD by allowing pedestrians to cut across the site, at the same time integrating the whole development. Potentialities include an office cluster and car parking that serves the CBD. The office buildings will provide new commercial space in Rubavu Secondary City to cater for the increasing demand within the regional services sector. The proposed zoning is City Commercial Zone (C3). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 81 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025104 • Rubavu High Street Project The street, located at the north of Rubavu Market, is serving the commercial developments along the street. The street is not pedestrian friendly due to vehicles parked along the street and obstacles on the footpath. The street lacks vibrancy and is in its current state unattractive for outdoor activities. Considering the views towards Rubavu Mountain, there is a potential to rejuvenate the street as a vibrant cultural and shopping area. The 200m long street can be converted into a car-free commercial street with vibrant commercial and cultural activities for both locals and tourists. The proposed themed pavement and public art shall represent the culture and identity of Rubavu. The Rubavu High Street would contribute to a refreshed image of the city, especially considering streets as important public spaces, and as an iconic place for visitors and residents to gather and socialize. The proposed zoning is City Commercial Zone (C3). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 82 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025105 • Hillside Redevelopment Project Redevelopment of existing hillside developments along Rubavu Mountain. Mount Rubavu is a great asset for the city, for both locals and tourists. Currently there is no clear view or direct access between the city center and the mountain due to the hillside developments. The site is strategically located at the end of the proposed Rubavu High Street. The site is 0.5 Ha with existing residential developments. The hillside redevelopment project aims to promote good accessibility between the city and the mountain while creating an inclusive hillside community including green space and pocket parks and organized car parking. The pedestrian thoroughfare is proposed to run through the private parcels. Retail activities fronting the Ruhengeri-Gisenyi Road are suggested to create a vibrant and active street along the hillside redevelopment. Besides the mixed-use redevelopment, this project will also showcase the opportunity to optimize land in a premium location. The proposed zoning is Mixed Use Commercial Zone (C1) and the proposed programme is retail, residential, green space, public space and car parking. There will also be entry points to the Rubavu Mountain Trail. • Mixed Use Redevelopment Project Redevelopment of existing mixed-use development along Avenue de l’Umuganda. The present configuration of commercial and residential development in the city center of Rubavu mainly consists of 1-2 storey developments with plot sizes of approximately 500m2. The area lacks sufficient car parking and open spaces. 15 lots have been identified to demonstrate the redevelopment model along Avenue de l’Umuganda. The project is subject to the lot owners' agreement to proceed with the project. The mixed use redevelopment scheme aims to provide organized developments for residents and businesses with increased public green spaces, playgrounds, good quality infrastructure, adequate car parking facilities and reduce congestion along the main road by land amalgamation. The site identified is 1.1 Ha and has been used for commercial purposes. The proposed mixed use redevelopment scheme aims to promote an inclusive community by addressing existing development issues and ensuring the provision of various programmes for residents and businesses. In order to meet car parking requirements for each lot, lot owners are recommended to construct shared car parking spaces. Minimum 4 lot owners are recommended to amalgamate their lots in order to create shared car parking in the middle of the amalgamated parcel. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 83 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025106 The adjacent roads are recommended to be pedestrianized in order to increase the amount of open space and to improve the traffic flow of Avenue de l’Umuganda. The proposed zoning is Mixed Use Commercial Zone (C1) with programmes like offices, retail, residential, green space, public space and shared car parking. • CBD Landmark Project Development of a landmark office and retail cluster in the heart of the CBD. The project site is approximately 2.8 ha, owned by ESSA Gisenyi and currently used for educational purposes. The area is one of the prime green fields located between the city center and the waterfront. Today, the area is fenced and the street along the site lacks activity and vibrancy. Considering the commercial activity extending towards the waterfront to connect the city and the lake, it is natural to convert part of this educational land into a mixed-use landmark development. The development will keep a campus-like environment where graduates from ESSA can work and learn at the same time. The development of the site will connect the city center and the waterfront. It is recommended to develop an active frontage with shops, retail activities and public space and plazas along the street, and to provide district car parking behind the development. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 84 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025107 The proposed zoning is City Commercial Zone (C3) with proposed programmes like offices, retail, public space and car parking. The project is expected to cater for the increasing needs for commercial, business and service activities in Rubavu Secondary City. • New Transport Hub Project Development of a new transport hub and commercial node. Located opposite the High Court of Rubavu Secondary City, the 0.78 ha site is currently occupied by existing residential developments and car parking. The local government has identified the area as a potential site for a new transport hub based on land availability and location close to the city center and along the arterial road. The existing bus terminal along Market Street is already saturated thus the city needs to increase the capacity of its public transport system. Existing two lots facing the arterial roads are recommended to be amalgamated with the car parking to form a 0.78 ha new transport terminal site with direct access from the arterial road. The lots around the bus terminal are recommended to be utilized for retail developments to serve passengers. This new bus terminal will function as a main bus terminal of the city in addition to the existing bus terminal along Market Street. The proposed zoning is Mixed Use Commercial Zone (C1). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 85 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025108 • Gisenyi Hospital Redevelopment Project Redevelopment of Gisenyi Hospital as a medical tourism hub. Improvement of the pedestrian connection from ESSA Gisenyi, CBD Landmark Project and the Mixed-Use Project. Gisenyi Hospital is located at the edge of the CBD and the entry point of Gisenyi Sector. The site is considered as one of the most prime lots in the city due to its location and size. Today, Gisenyi Hospital has 325 beds and is planned to be redeveloped. Four of the existing buildings have been identified by the local government to be preserved while others could be redeveloped. The redevelopment will transform the area into an international medical tourism hub with a campus- like environment. 4-5 storey buildings shall be allocated along the arterial road while the central area is for open space, where patients and visitors can rest and relax. While different specialized medical services could be housed in the existing and new buildings, it is recommended to well integrate the existing and the new medical facilities with ample green spaces and landscaping to create a walkable environment. Some retail, commercial, and food and beverage services are also recommended to be introduced towards street frontage so that the street linking the hospital to the city center and the waterfront remains vibrant. The site is 5.8 Ha. • Gisenyi Catholic Parish Pedestrian Linkage Project Gisenyi Catholic Parish is one of the cultural and religious landmarks located at the heart of Rubavu City. The site offers playgrounds and open spaces for locals to play football, basketball and other activities. The site has a significant potential to be the activity node between the city and the waterfront by improving the pedestrian linkage through the site. Programs such as a museum and a community center can add value to the site where locals and visitors can gather and spend time. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 86 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025109 • Waterfront Commercial Development Project The green field site is strategically located between the waterfront and Gisenyi Catholic Parish. Today, the area does not have significant commercial activities which can attract international tourists. The local government is considering converting one section of the waterfront into a car-free pedestrian boulevard. The site is 2.0 Ha. The waterfront project will create a main focal point, an events’ venue and tourist destination in Rubavu. The project consists of hotels, a performing arts center, commercial developments, a pedestrian promenade next to the waterfront park and Rubavu Waterfront Square for events and festivals. The project will showcase Rubavu's distinctive waterfront identity and its advancement towards achieving the vision of the city. • Coastal Park Project Today, the waterfront area lacks commercial activities and vibrancy except for the time of organized events such as a music festival. The Park consists of a beach and a landscape area. During events, the road is filled with parked cars due to the lack of car park facilities within the area. The length of the park is 1.9 km (0.8 km beach). The waterfront is proposed to be rejuvenated by adding active and vibrant uses along the waterfront. The concept is to develop pedestrian boardwalks and viewing decks which optimize the exceptional view of the lake. Public arts and food and beverage are located at key nodes along the park, to add various characteristics in each area of the park. Programmes including a marina and a botanical garden will create a new destination for various tourism and income groups. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 87 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025110 4.4.9 Rubavu Green Urbanization During the development of Rubavu DLUP, aspects of “Green City Development” have been incorporated to accommodate the National Green Growth and Climate Resilient Strategy (GGCRS), and green principles should be integrated in the planning and implementation of different land uses. With the assistance of GGGI, REMA and other stakeholder, the district aspires to integrate the district's development plans to green growth and climate resilience measures to direct the district's growth in a green and climate-resilient manner, resulting in low-carbon urban development, disaster-resilient district, and increased green investment. Rubavu District is located in a volcanic region. Risk assessments and vulnerability mapping is required to develop effective disaster management systems. There are many cases of deforestation, erosion and soil degradation documented in Rubavu. The water in the two main perennial rivers, Sebeya and Pfunda, have a lot of sediments and pollution due to soil erosion caused by agricultural and organic debris. Deforestation is mainly caused by the common use of wood as a source of energy. Water harvesting techniques in urban settlements are proposed to be undertaken, to reduce water runoff for erosion control and storage of natural resources as well as addressing the water shortage issues in the district. A variety of open green spaces are proposed to optimize green areas and to improve the character and identity of Rubavu as Green Secondary City. The Green and Blue Plan indicates a city-wide park network, banking on the various natural assets and recreational activities. The major green corridor from Buhuru to Mahoko will form a continuous network that will connect the other green features such as urban parks, neighborhood parks and nature areas. The green corridor along Lake Kivu will serve as a tourism zone with quality recreation spaces and commercial activities. Along with these, there is also a green corridor proposed in each planning area Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 88 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025111 which will serve as a network connecting all the neighborhoods. Urban and neighborhood parks will be proposed at sub-centre and neighborhood centers. Around 130 ha will be reserved for parks and open space. Around 92 ha of land will be developed as a sports and tourism zone mainly distributed along Lake Kivu. The rest of the land is shared by nature protection zones such as forest, steep slopes, nature conservation, wetland and water bodies. It is important to manage these natural assets that contribute to the City's liveability and environment. Around 1,950 Ha of nature areas will need to be managed appropriately following the specified guidelines. For sustainable use of land as indicated in NLUDMP 2020-2050, conditional use in climate-resilient development projects may be considered for the 109.6 ha of slope zone 30-50 inside the settlement boundaries of Rubavu. Urban Environment Street Design • Multimodal Street It is expected that by the year 2050, 75% of the world’s population will be living in the cities. Even though it is expected that car ownership will increase with economic growth, multimodal street designs will need to balance the demand for personal mobility, and access to the city economy. According to the global street design guide, streets must be designed to serve different modes of transport and provide multiple mobility options. This allows road users to have good access to different locations within the city. Rubavu has the potential to develop a network of multi modal streets, which contributes to quality of life for residents and an increase in economic opportunities for business. Roads have been selected based on their role in overall transportation network, traffic management, pavement conditions and drainage as noted in the 2016 RUDP study for Rubavu. Multimodal street design allows for the accommodation of non-motorized transport (NMT), public transport, on-street parking, trees and greenery, universal access with pedestrian ramps and street lighting. • Cyclists Facilities Provision of bicycle lanes and convenient bicycle parking in the city centre and at destinations will attract more cyclists and promote Rubavu as a green transport city. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 89 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025112 • High Pedestrian Activity Zone For areas like parks and recreational facilities, a pedestrian only street is highly recommended. The street will have a positive impact on the quality of life of the urban environment, and also provide an attractive environment for NMT users. With provision of pedestrian facilities, benches, paths, street lighting and greenery, the safety of NMT users will increase. • Urban Street with Business Opportunities Street design for urban roads will be suitable for areas with low motor vehicle ownership. Even though there is space allocated for car lanes, there’s a greater provision for NMT, and public space e.g. outdoor seating areas at restaurants. Vehicular speed for motor vehicles need to be regulated to be below 40km/h with provision of road signs warning motorists of a high presence of pedestrians and cyclists. • Inner City Green Spaces in the Fissure Line In 2021, Rubavu experienced one of the worst earthquakes in its history with the magnitude of 6.4 caused by the eruption of Nyiragongo Volcano in the DRC. This eruption destroyed social and economic infrastructure, caused human casualties and led to internal displacement. The earthquake left a fissure line stretching from Goma city up to Lake Kivu. In 2022, a study was commissioned to determine the extent of the effects of the earthquake to be integrated into the Rubavu master plan. The fracture zone ranges between 60m to 80m in the shallow portion and between 120m to 250m in the deeper portion. In order to protect lives and households, a protected zone (green space) has been proposed in the area to prohibit future developments and structures. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 90 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025113 4.5 Rubavu Transportation Plan The National Transport Policy and Strategy for Rwanda forms the guideline for the transportation plan for Rubavu District. The key policy pillars in The National Transport Policy and strategy for Rwanda, 2021 are: • Policy Pillar 1: Promotion of sustainable development of an integrated transport infrastructure network; • Policy Pillar 2: Enhancement of the quality of transport services; • Policy Pillar 3: Reinforcement of capacity building in the transport sector and addressing cross cutting issues. • The following key strategies have guided the DLUP in the transport sector: • Multi-modal: Covering all modes of transport, air, land, and water and both passenger and freight. • Multi-sector: Encompassing the problems and viewpoints of government, private industry, and public. • Multi-problem: Ranging across a spectrum of issues that includes national and international policy, planning of regional systems, the location and design of specific facilities, carrier management issues, regulatory, institutional and financial policies. • Multi-objective: National and regional economic development, urban development, environment quality, and social quality, as well as services to users and financial and economic feasibility. • Multi-disciplinary: Drawing on the theories and methods of engineering, economics, operation research, political science, psychology, other natural and social sciences, management and law. Rubavu DLUP accommodates various modes of transportation, including NMT, public transport, private transport and water transport. NMT is the main mode of transport used, while public transport is the main mode of motorized transport used. As a result, to improve accessibility and mobility, planning for neighborhood-level public facilities and services is needed, which will form the basis of an integrated public transport system. This will result in networks connecting various neighborhoods, zones and hubs, through the use of public transport, walking and cycling. 4.5.1 Rubavu Existing Transportation Network The main approach of the proposed road network is to retain existing roads wherever possible and to establish a clear road hierarchy. The roads within Rubavu District cover 1,845Ha with a total length of almost 1180 km. The northern part of Rubavu, especially in Cyanzarwe, Bugeshi, and Mudende, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 91 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025114 are characterized by unpaved roads with no street elements like drainage or street lights. In the southern parts, especially in Nyundo, Gisenyi, Rugerero, Nyamyumba, and Nyundo Sectors, some of the roads are paved. The roads identified in the zoning plan are re-assessed and further networks of local roads are introduced to ensure access to all plots across the entire district. The existing roads NR 18, RN 4, DR31 and DR35 form the main structure of the city where existing settlements, border access, public transport routes and freight movements are currently operating. Isolated and sparse settlements are scattered along the roads to Gakoni, Rutsiro, Gasiza and Gakamba. According to the RUDP 2016, there are 356 roads with a total length of 220 km within the urban limit of Rubavu City. Road Classification National Roads (Paved) 1.1 National Roads (Unpaved) 6.9 Total Road Length Within Urban Limit(Km) 2 Number % 3.1 Table 17: Details of Existing Road Network 1 0.5 District Roads 11.2 Other Tarmac Road 10.3 2 5.1 1 4.7 CobbleStone Road Other Major Unpaved Road 1.1 1 0.5 189.2 345 85.7 Rwanda Urban Development Program and Preliminary Designs for Infrastructure in Rubavu Secondary City (2016) conducted a comprehensive study of the existing road network which identified major issues and included road upgrade plans. • Inconsistent carriageways and lack of proper NMT facilities. • No classification system for local roads. • Many unpaved steep gradient roads. • Poorly aligned local roads. • High conflict areas between NMT and motorized transport. • Limited road capacity. • Limited public transport coverage due to lack of all-weather roads and distances from households to all-weather roads. There are a series of round-abouts proposed in Rubavu Secondary City on major intersections in a bid to improve mobility and reinforce the image of the city. Due to the nature of the existing site context and heavily built up areas, roundabouts tend to require large space which in this case necessitates significant expropriation and resettlement. Considering the existing site context as well as resource optimization, signaled junctions are the most efficient in such a situation. Instead, well-designed public Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 92 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025115 spaces and streets work better than roundabouts and increase economic activities around them. The same strategy is encouraged in the road system as well as urban design of the city center. 4.5.2 Rubavu Proposed Settlement Connectivity As a result of the findings on major road network issues , a number of projects were proposed by Rubavu District to improve overall condition and connectivity of the city and to cater for the urban and rural transportation demand of 2035 and 2050. The following map is providing information on the proposed settlement connectivity plan, with road networks that allow for accessibility in most of the settlements to facilitate mobility, business, and trade by connecting consumers to producers and agricultural yield to buyers and connecting rural and urban areas. Map 17: Proposed Settlement Connectivity in Rubavu District To improve the public transport network in Rubavu, more all-weather road coverage must be constructed. Additionally, formalized public transport routes and facilities should be established. Collection points and bus embayments should be formalized and additional terminals and transit corridors should be implemented. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 93 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025116 A number of routes have been identified of significance for the overall transportation network, such as settlement connecting roads, bypass for managing current and future traffic congestion, commercial corridors to facilitate efficient movement of goods and services including transit goods, and substantial residential roads. These roads should either be developed or upgraded to national standards to promote sustainable urban and economic development of the district. Name Rugerero-Byahi Pt Barrierie-Court Mahoko-Byahi Magengu-PetiteBariere Magengu-Airport-PetiteBariere Heavy track alt Gisa-Braceli / water Port Gereza-Industrial Park Bypass Pfunda-Gisa-Rugerero-Buhuru Bypass Pfunda-Gisa Connecting Road Table 18: Rubavu Substantial Roads Service By pass for heavy transportation city- pt bariere Residential heavy transportation-transit heavy transportation-alt heavy transportation By pass for heavy transportation Access Industrial park By pass for heavy transportation By pass for heavy transportation Connecting Road Area (m2) 5789.90 1297.76 14120.03 3490.74 4244.81 1910.99 6881.41 2698.98 556.03 8810.40 716.11 The improvement plans are to improve overall condition and connectivity of the city and to cater for the urban demand of 2030. The plans are divided into three phases: • Phase-1: is being implemented under World Bank Grants already committed. • Phase-2: will be taken upon completion of phase-1, under World Bank Grants already committed. • Phase-3: projects will be taken up based on funds availability for the districts. Within existing unplanned settlements, where local roads cannot be provided due to space constraints, NMT linkages are proposed. While the recommended minimum width for NMT is 6m, this may vary subject to ground conditions and feasibility. Besides construction of new local roads, upgrading of existing pathways are considered. Proposed Road Standards The Rwandan Public Transport Policy and National Road Code has provided guidance in the establishment of the transport plan for Rubavu District. The following table represents the road standards in rural and urban areas. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 94 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025117 No Road Categories Proposed Road Width 1 2 3 4 5 National Roads 44 m (22 m x 2) District Roads Class 1 44 m (22 m x 2) District Roads Class 2 24 m (12 x 2) Access Roads Service Roads 12 m (6 x 2) 9 m (4.5 x 2) Table 19: Rubavu Recommended Road network Classification However, according to the Article 214/12/2012 of the Law No 55/2011 of 14/12/2011 governing roads, the dimensions of the road reserve for the City of Kigali and other urban areas shall be determined in respect of the provisions of the master plan of the area irrespective of the road classification. Therefore, Rubavu DLUP determined dimensions of the road reserve for some commercial centers based upon convincing factors agreed during field consultations with local authorities. ▪ ROW cross-sections There are mainly four road classifications in this DLUP: National Roads, District Road Class 1, District Road Class 2 and other roads. According to the Rwanda Road Act of the Official Gazette nº 04 of 23/01/2011, the ROW widths are set but flexibility is given on National Roads and District Roads Class 1 in urban areas. Dual Carriage NatiHigh Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba Urban Areas: 25m ROW. o Lane width: 3.5m o Dual carriageway: 3.5x4 = 14m o Shoulder and green space: 2x2 = 4m, o Median width = 1m o Footway in urban areas: 1.5x2 =3m o Road reserve:1.5x2 = 3m Urban Areas, 25m ROW Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 95 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025118 Figure 17: Dual Carriage National Road/ High-Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba Single Carriage National Road/High-Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba Urban Areas of 23m ROW. o Lane Width: 3.5m o Single carriageway: 3.5x2 = 7m o Shoulder and Green space: 3x2 = 6m o Median width = 1m o Footway in urban conditions: 2x2 =4m o Road reserve: 2.5x2 = 5m Figure 18: Single Carriage National Road/ High-Capacity Urban Roads of Rubavu CBD and Kabumba urban areas of 23m ROW Primary Local Road in communities: 8-12.5m for brownfield and 12.5m for greenfield developments. o Lane Width 3x2 = 6m o Footpath 1.5x2 = 3m o Road Reserve 1.5x2 = 3m Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 96 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025119 Figure 19: Primary Local Road in communities: 9-12.5m for brownfield and 12.5m for greenfield developments. NMT – 3m for rural settlement sites without road accessibility Footway 1.5 x 2 = 3m Freight Freight transport is required for the delivery of goods, but as freight traffic is the primary cause of road deterioration it is ideal for freight traffic to be separated from regular road traffic, either through the use of rail, or through separate freight roads. However, the cost of implementing such corridors is expensive and full feasibility studies would be required, that would consider all economic and typographical aspects. Thus, as separate freight roads are usually not possible, it is important that freight routes are prescribed to major roads and roads outside urban areas as far as possible, as these are better designed for the wear caused by heavy vehicles. The freight network on Rubavu is road based. The freight network is linked between Rubavu- Musanze – Kigali, between Muhanga – Rubavu and between Rubavu and the DRC. Rubavu is the gateway city to the DRC and has existing border posts, which facilitate these international freight movements. The proposed future freight movements will be assigned to also include water and rail movements. From the above proposed freight network, the road-based network was assigned and assessed. Freight Network ● Larger trucks require more space to accommodate turning movements, that is why urban environments must provide an efficient road network for moving goods and providing city services. That is why Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 97 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025120 most urban streets should not be designed to accommodate larger trucks. However, where larger trucks have to be accommodated the design street must have sufficient space to allow for turning movements of larger trucks. The commercial vehicles do not require large radii or bigger lanes and can be easily accommodated on the current urban street design. City service vehicles, and emergency trucks can be accommodated in urban street environments and just like commercial vehicles, they do not require a bigger adjustment of the current urban street geometry. Larger trucks in designated routes can be accommodated with a large radius, however it is expected for these vehicles to invade the opposite lanes while performing a turning movement. Access to commercial delivery must be limited to off-peak periods to minimize the delays caused by larger vehicles during the peak-hour period. In urban environments with high presence of pedestrians and cyclists, larger vehicle operating speeds must be limited to 30 Km/hr to minimize the severity of road accidents. Fire trucks and emergency vehicles can have access to bus dedicated lanes during congestion periods to minimize travel time, and improve access to fire hydrants. Truck routes should have minimal impact on local residential streets, with potential disruptions like noise pollution, space requirements, and congestion. 4.5.3 Green Transport Promotion Strategies Green transport means any mode of transport which is powered by an alternative power source, alternative fuel of physical human force such that, when in operation, it produces minimal almost no greenhouse gasses. The benefits include reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources and consequently decreasing the demand on fuel and gasoline. Public transport and NMT can further improve the mobility network by reducing the number of vehicles on the roads and consequently mitigate traffic congestion and. Compared with private driving, public transport reduces CO2 emissions by 45%, decreases pollutants in the atmosphere and improves air quality. As electric rail travel and electric buses increase in use, the benefits to the environment from public transportation also increase. For developing countries, it is expected with an increase in wealth, that there could be a mode shift from NMT to motorized transport which is associated with environmental Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 98 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025121 and climate change risks. To ensure that Rubavu District has a sustainable transportation and mobility system, the existing culture of walking and cycling, as a form of transportation, needs to be maintained and further encouraged through different interventions. The following key strategies and key performance indicators were developed for the green transport enabling strategy in Rubavu DLUP. Nbr Green Transport Plan – Key Strategies Key Performance Indicators N1 Develop a city-wide NMT network, which supports Development of an NMT the public transport system. network N2 Develop a Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) network Inclusion of NMT in road along arterial and collector roads hierarchy and cross-sections N3 Develop a strategic approach to providing pedestrian Commission of road design amenities, such as trees and street furniture. manuals and guidelines N4 Develop a pleasant streetscape, especially along the Inclusion of NMT in road NMT Network hierarchy and cross-sections N5 Develop a well-connected NMT network that utilizes Reservation of servitudes open spaces and the road network N6 Develop a pedestrian-friendly street design guidance Commission of road design manual for use in residential and urban commercial manuals, transport legislation and settings guidelines N7 Develop a green network connecting green zones Develop green network through NMT connectors Table 20: Key Strategies of Green Transport Plan Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 99 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025122 Non-Motorized Transportation Network Green transportation network strategies also consist of providing infrastructure for non-motorized transport (NMT). In addition to public transport, an independent network that is comfortable and safe to encourage walking and cycling must be provided. Safe and attractive walkways and bicycle lanes encourage people to walk and cycle, which will decrease the pressure on the road network. The importance of NMT is key to the successful development and growth of Rubavu. All collector and arterial roads should have separate walkways and bicycle lanes. Along roads close to schools, hospitals, public facilities and within the CBD, NMT should be prioritized. It is recommended that to improve all-weather accessibility, NMT infrastructure should be implemented to allow for proper access. All NMT infrastructure should be designed to allow for universal access. The NMT network should focus on upgrades in all urban areas. There is an established NMT network in Gisenyi, this should be expanded to serve a wider area of Rubavu Secondary City. The roads proposed in the RUDP phasing should be designed and upgraded with the NMT network. Phases 1, 2, 3 and RTDA proposed road upgrades should include NMT facilities as part of the implementation of safe, green and accessible roads. The 2016 RUDP reports do indicate through proposed cross-sections the required walkway widths of 1.5m. Within the development of NMT infrastructure on roads, there are various NMT routes and a network developed to cater primarily for walking and cycling. Although the master plan update does not specify detailed NMT route upgrades, it has identified the need for an NMT network that should be investigated as priority for the implementation of a functional NMT network for Rubavu. • The minor green corridor served as a radial network towards afforestation zones to each township. • The major green corridor from Buhuru to Mahoko to form a continuous network that connects other green features along it, such as parks, reserves etc. • The Green Corridor along Lake Kivu serves as a tourism zone. Warrant requirements for pedestrian bridges should be developed and these should be erected where appropriate. The proposed 2050 NMT network should be assigned to the collectors and arterials. This plan has proposed the routes for the green route connectors and the roads that are proposed to be upgraded with NMT infrastructure. Collectors and arterials shown below that are not marked with NMT infrastructure already are constructed with such infrastructure. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 100 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025123 Car Free zone and Car Free day In order to make Rubavu more environmentally friendly, the district shall encourage city residents to participate in sport activities twice a month in order to prevent non-communicable diseases and lower emissions from the transportation system. Additionally, the road from Kivu Serena to the Gorilla hotel can be reserved as a car free zone area to encourage more outdoor environmentally friendly activities like walking, jogging and cycling etc. The following aerial image is providing more information in this regard Figure 20: Car Free Zone in Rubavu Secondary City 4.6 Public Facilities and Services It is envisioned that with the proposed settlement structure implemented, access to public facilities and services will improve as these are centralized and the services offered within consolidated settlements. The provision of facilities and servicing of sprawled settlements will be discontinued. 4.6.1 Existing Schools in Rubavu District In Rubavu District, 81.8% of children attend primary school compared to the national average of 88.2%. The number of students that attend high school is 22% compared to 23.8% at national level. In terms of computer literacy only 9% are confident to use a computer. School attendance varies across educational levels. • Very low (19%) for the preschool-age (3-6 years), widespread (87%) for the primary school- age (7-12 years), and medium (71%) for the secondary school-age (13-18 years). • School attenda nce also varies across the sectors: • For preschool-age, it varies from 10% in Nyundo to 46% in Gisenyi. • For primary school-age, it varies from 78% in Kanama to 96% in Gisenyi. • For secondary school, it varies from 50% in Busasamana to 78% in Gisenyi. • The highest level of education attained varies across the sectors: Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 101 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025124 • No schooling: Cyanzarwe (31%), Kanama (29%) and Mudende (26%). • University level: Gisenyi Sector (19%). • Secondary level: Gisenyi sector (46%). • Primary education: Nyundo (64%), Nyamyumba (62%). and Busasamana (61%). In terms of educational facilities, there are 9 pre-primary schools, 86 primary schools, 54 secondary A' level schools and 10 vocational centers, as per Education Statistics 2017, Ministry of Education, Rwanda. The primary and secondary schools are well distributed across the district with a higher concentration in Rubavu, Mahoko and the corridor to Musanze. There has been a significant increase in the number of VTC in the last few years, however more such centers need to be established to ensure skilled labor within the district. An increase in the number of girls who drop-out of school is a matter of concern. The following map illustrates the location of existing schools in Rubavu District, Map 18: Existing Education Facilities Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 102 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025125 4.6.2 Proposed Schools and Future Guidelines in Rubavu District In line with the projected population growth, there will be an increase in the number of students which directly impacts the existing schools. There is an urgent demand for new classrooms for both primary and secondary schools. Both public and private schools, churches, and NGOs should be made aware to urgently respond to this future demand. 4.6.3 NLUDMP 2020-2050 recommendations in the Education Sector 4.6.3.1 Nursery and Primary Education by 2050 According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, the following standards and parameters have been established for nursery and primary schools. – – – – Average class size: 35 pupils/class Average school size: 840 pupils Required size for a nursery school: 0.5ha Required size for a primary school: 1ha 4.6.3.2 Secondary, Vocational and Technical Education by 2050 According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, the following standards and parameters have been established for secondary education, which will support the reform of quality and quantity. – – – – – Enrolment rate will be 90 % Average class size: 35 pupils/class Average school size: 840 pupils Required size for a secondary school: 1.5ha Required size for vocational and technical school: 2h Proposed Schools and Future Guidelines in Rubavu District In the preparation of Rubavu DLUP for the 2050 horizon year, there will be an increase of students with direct impacts on existing schools for the whole district. There is a serious demand for new classrooms for both primary and secondary schools. Jointly both public, FBO, NGOs and private sectors have to be aware of such a situation to urgently respond to this future demand. According to the statistical projections, the following tables are reflecting the increase in numbers of schools up to the year 2050. The percentage of children who have age for joining school in Rubavu District will be used as a standard at the district level. Thus,12 % are in pre-primary ,23.1% in primary and 19.2% in secondary Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 103 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025126 school. These percentages will be applied to the total population year by year, and considering the standard of 840 children per school (NLUDMP2020-2050), the calculation of schools needed to accommodate all school-age children to implement the Education for all policy. Required size of schools up to 2050 The number of schools is determined by the following formula • Ns= Where, • Ns: Number of Schools are needed • S (6-11): Percentage of the population who aged 6-11 years /depends age group • Qs= Standard number of students for a level school (ECD, Nursery, Primary, Secondary, Tertiary) • P1: Present total Population Required size of Nursery schools from 2022 up to 2050 Description 2022 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 Total Population 546683 609829 669730 724117 782921 846500 Nursery ( 3-5) 63259 73180 80368 86894 93950 101580 Planned school 75 Planned Classrooms 1807 Required Classrooms 1281 Required Schools 53 87 2091 1565 65 96 2296 1770 74 103 2483 1957 82 112 2684 2158 90 121 2902 2376 99 Table 21: Required size of Nursery schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 Considering the population growth trend, the table above illustrates the information of nursery schools where the infrastructures are insufficient which indicates that, it will be necessary to build new schools and extension for some schools to reduce the overcrowding of students. Required size of Primary schools from 2022 up to 2050 Description Total Population Primary ( 6-11] Planned school Planned Classrooms Required Classrooms 2022 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 546,683 126099 150 3603 1518 609,829 140871 168 4025 1940 669,730 724,117 782,921 154708 167271 180855 184 4420 2335 199 4779 2694 215 5167 3082 846,500 195542 233 5587 3502 Required Schools 63 81 97 112 128 146 Table 22:: Required size of Primary schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 104 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025127 Conferring to the projected results, this table presents the inadequate of classrooms in primary level from 2022 to 2050 as the population growth rises, there will be increase of number of children who will join the primary schools which denotes that the great demand of constructing new classrooms will be needed in order to satisfy the standards of 35 children per classroom and 840 children per school, i.e. 24 classrooms per school (NLUDMP 2020-2050). Required size of Secondary schools from 2022 up to 2050 Description 2022 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 Total Population 546683 609829 669730 724117 782921 846500 Secondary (12-17) 105099 117087 128588 139030 150321 162528 Planned school Planned Classrooms Required Classrooms Required Schools TVETs Schools(60%) General Education(40%) 125 3003 1477 62 37 25 139 3345 1819 76 45 30 153 3674 2148 89 54 36 166 3972 2446 102 61 179 4295 2769 115 69 193 4644 3118 130 78 41 46 52 Table 23:: Required size of Secondary schools. Source: NLUDMP 2020-2050 Adapted by NLA staff, 2024 At the level of secondary schools, the needs for the construction of schools from the year 2022 where in 2022 ,62 schools were needed and the total number of schools of the secondary level to be constructed should be 130 by 2050.This will need to build an average of 78 schools for TVETs and 52 Schools for General Education.Due to the vision 2050 and NST1 which are aimed to achieve education for all by 2050, National Land Authority (2022) through Land Use Plans Zoning Regulations Guiding Tool provided the Guidelines regulating the school facilities for instance secondary school covers a lot size of 1.5 Ha, Primary School needs 1Ha lot size and Nursery requires 0.5 Ha. 4.6.4 Existing Healthcare Facilities in Rubavu District Rwanda’s health system has witnessed several transformations and significant improvement. With over 84% of Rwandans insured by the Mutuelle de Santé, Rwanda has ensured that the citizens have access to primary health care, which aims to guarantee access for all to health care. Currently, the number of hospitals is 48, including 8 national referral hospitals, 4 provincial hospitals and 36 district hospitals. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 105 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025128 Rubavu District has various healthcare facilities distributed within the major settlements. Currently there are 37 healthcare facilities including one district hospital, 13 health centers, 11 health posts, 7 private clinics, 4 private dispensaries and a prison dispensary. As per EICV 5 survey, access to the healthcare facilities are at moderate level, with an average walking distance to a health center of 35 minutes for urban residents and 64 minutes for rural residents, whereas the country-wide average is one hour. The existing healthcare facilities in the district have inadequate infrastructure with limited specialized staff and accessibility. The number of patients that the Rubavu Hospital receives on a daily basis is high compared to its capacity. In addition, the hospital is in need of refurbishment. Ambulance service is poor which impacts patients in need of transport. The following map is providing information on location of healthcare facilities in Rubavu District Map 19: Existing healthcare facilities in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 106 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025129 4.6.5 Proposed Healthcare Facilities and Future Guidelines in Rubavu District The projected population growth will directly impact the healthcare facilities within the district. The demand for various facilities and healthcare services will increase. The current hospital in the secondary city will be expanded in order to provide a larger range of healthcare services to the growing population. Additionally, a new hospital isrequired in the Rurban center, for aligning with the NLUDMP recommendation of at least two hospitals per district. Howver, Detailed planning for healthcare facilities in rural settlementsis discussed in the urbanization chapter. Overall, cay new healthcare facility to be built within urban and rural settlement boundaries should utilize vertical construction. 4.6.6 Existing Public Administration Services in Rubavu District Rwanda is composed of two layers of government - central and local government (Republic of Rwanda Website, 2023). Rubavu District is categorized under local government and is divided into 12 Sectors. Additionally, these Sectors are divided into 93 Cells and lastly, into 519 Villages. All these subdivisions are headed by different people at every level and they all have different roles though directing towards the same cause. These subdivisions have respective offices spatially distributed in each Villages. This decentralization is due to the willingness of service proximity and the improvement of efficiency in accountable service delivery. This positively impacts social livelihood. In Rubavu District, the decentralization policy has been implemented since 2000 with the purpose to improve efficiency in accountable service delivery. Strategies to achieve this was to ensure empowerment of local citizens and allowing them to participate in the planning and management of local affairs. The local governance system is regulated by a number of legal and regulatory frameworks. All these regulatory and strategic documents have put a great emphasis on the role of local population and local groups in fostering local development (MINALOC, 2012). To ensure efficient decentralization, it is structured from the central government and provinces down to the village level, where village leaders identify and integrate community needs into national planning through a participatory process with community. However, some public facilities’ infrastructures and offices at the sector, cell, and Imidugudu levels are in poor condition. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 107 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025130 4.6.6.1 Planning Perspectives on Public Administration Services in Rubavu District To improve public service provision in the future, there is a need to build offices for all villages, Additionally, the district, with stakeholders, to modernize offices for sectors and cells by developing a vertical structure within the current facilities’ land for maximizing land while accommodating all services required. NLUDMP 2020-2050 suggests administrative transformation from a five-level hierarchy in 2020 to a four-level hierarchy in 2025. The “Village” becomes redundant due to the decreased number of Imidugudu and the increased size of the settlement itself. As far as services are concerned, the constitution assigns executive powers to local government over services, often implemented in partnership with other government and non-government agencies. Only essential and primary services in health and education are within the responsibility of local organs. At District level the planned services are planning and overseeing implementation of various plans, monitoring and evaluation, local economic development, construction permits issuances, environmental management, infrastructure and facility services. At Sector level, services include land related matters, civil registration, implementation of District plans while at Cell level community organization in matters related to socio economic transformation are emphasized. However, some of the strategies to achieve sustainable public administration in Rubavu District involve mainly continuous capacity building for all District staff and upgrading of sector and cells offices. Sector offices must be stored whereas cell offices are single houses and supplied with all necessary infrastructure and utilities. 4.7 Public Utilities in Rubavu District 4.7.1 Existing Electrical Network in Rubavu District Energy will continue to be a basic requirement for urban and commercial development. Evidence shows a strong correlation between the increase in energy consumption and rise in income levels. Energy is central to Rwanda’s economic ambitions and development plans as it supports all other sectors, including housing and urbanization, manufacturing, agro-processing, mining, tourism and IT. Hence, a well-functioning, efficient energy sector is vital for achieving the country’s national goals. According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, per capita consumption of energy will increase from 1,026 kwh in 3035 to 3,080 kwh in 2050. It is anticipated that there could be a need for about 3,788MW and Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 108 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025131 13,981 MW of energy capacity in 2035 and 2050, respectively. There will be a high emphasis on an adequate and stable supply of electricity for household and commercial purposes. NLUDMP 2020-2050 sets out a clear path for Rwanda to achieve upper middle-income status by 2035 and high-income status by 2050. Energy will support the delivery of Vision 2050 by expanding affordable, reliable access to electricity to both citizens and industrial users, ensuring sustainability in biomass supply and securing supplies of petroleum. International experience has shown that economic development is difficult without a well-functioning energy sector, and without minimum levels of capacity and consumption. The energy sector in Rwanda is made up of three sub-sectors: power, hydrocarbon and new and renewable sources of energy. Amongst the renewable sources of energy are biomass, solar, peat, wind, geothermal and hydropower. Biomass is the most commonly used and dominates both the demand and supply sides of the Rwandan economy. The following table Is providing more information on potential energy contributions in the country Rubavu District has got two hydro-power plants, solar energy and methane gas which can generate electricity to achieve 100% connection for the whole district. Currently, almost 86% of households are connected to the main grid whereas 13% use off-grid energy. The main energy source for lighting is electricity (27%) whereas firewood is the main energy source for cooking (62%). The number of people who use renewable sources of energy for cooking (improved cooking stoves, biogas) is low. Therefore, the district should integrate ways of improving the use of renewable sources which are sustainable. No Umurenge 1 BUGESHI 2 BUSASAMANA 3 CYANZARWE 4 GISENYI 5 KANAMA 6 KANZENZE 7 MUDENDE 8 NYAKIRIBA 9 NYAMYUMBA 10 NYUNDO 11 RUBAVU 12 RUGERERO Total Number of HHs HHs Using Cooking Gas 7,044 7,950 7,243 12,031 7,188 4,433 6,655 7,219 9,117 8,195 11,520 11,338 99,933 45 25 15 823 45 24 9 69 57 35 52 78 1277 % 0.64 0.31 0.21 6.84 0.63 0.54 0.14 0.96 0.63 0.43 0.45 0.69 1.28 Table 24: Number of households (HH) using improved cooking stoves, biogas for cooking Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 109 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025132 Map 20: Existing Electricity Distribution in Rubavu District 4.7.2 Guidelines for Future Electricity Distribution in Rubavu District As a large number of people live in rural areas and in isolated and scattered rural housing patterns in hilly areas. The number of people who have access to off-grid electrical connections is still very low. This impedes the development and growth of a district since electricity fosters business activities. To strike a balance, there should be two possible ways of accessing electricity using both off grid and on grid connections. Having full access to electricity in rural settings would require funding from non- government entities. To enhance renewable energy use and align with NLUDMP 2020-2050 guidelines, stipulating utility provision solely for approved settlements, it's recommended to implement off-grid solar energy systems in dispersed settlements as an intermediate solution for Rwanda Universal Electrification’s goal. 4.7.3 Existing Water Lines Connectivity in Rubavu District Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) is mainly responsible for supplying and managing potable water in the urban and rural areas of Rubavu District. In some cases, operations and Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 110 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025133 maintenance of rural water supply systems and schemes are carried out by cooperatives, organized by the district. The Fifth Integrated Household Living Conditions Survey (EICV 5) (2016/17) assesses the current levels of service in Rubavu District in terms of water supply. Improved water sources refer to protected springs; unprotected springs provide unimproved water sources. According to the EICV 5, almost 99% of the residents in the City of Rubavu have access to an improved water source, which is higher than the national average (85%). The average time to access an improved water source is less than 8 minutes, which is lower than the national average (approx. 10 minutes). A small percentage (2%) of households do not use their nearest water source because it is either too expensive, too far, or it does not function. In terms of access to an improved drinking water source, most of the population get their water from a public standpipe. Most households in Rubavu District are using unimproved water sources or an unprotected water spring. Sebeya River is the main water source of the City of Rubavu. The river originates in the Gishwati Forest and crosses Rubavu Town before it discharges into Lake Kivu. The varying topography along the river in combination with agricultural activities, result in erosion and therefore high sediment levels in the river. The river is also subject to uncontrolled sand and gravel extraction which has affected the riverbed. It is noted that in the Local Urban Development Plan (2012-2022) report, there was an obvious decline in the water levels of the Sebeya River due to upstream deforestation. Since forests absorb and gradually release water, deforestation affects the downstream water sources. The reliability of the water source is therefore uncertain, although there have been ongoing efforts to protect the riverbanks from further erosion. Protection of the riverbed requires coordination from various districts and sectors along the river. The Gihira Water Treatment Plant is located in the northeast part of Rubavu Secondary City, with a processing capacity of 23,000m³/day, operating 24 hours/day. The plant treats water from the Sebeya River. According to the Rubavu Local Urban Development Plan (LUDP) from 2011, the Gihira Water Treatment Plant has capacity to meet the urban growth demands of the City for 10 years. Therefore, as the population is increasing as per described in the population chapter, the treatment water treatment plant capacity, alone might not be sufficient to meet the future demands for surrounding neighborhood. The water distribution network in Rubavu is split into a primary and secondary system of PVC pipes. The primary network ensures the supply of water to different tanks around the city. The secondary network supplies most of the public taps and individual household connections. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 111 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025134 Some of the key issues that must be addressed by Rubavu Secondary City include: • • • • • • • Encroachment of settlements on the Sebeya River; Illegal dumping and pollution of the river; Uncontrolled sand mining and harvesting along the Sebeya River; Upstream deforestation result in water level decline; Flooding of the Sebeya River in the rainy seasons; Improve water management skills; Demand management programme needs to be introduced. The future water demand for the urban/high-density areas is significantly higher than that for the rural/low-density areas. The water demand for the rural residential zones (R1B) is estimated to be 40 l/person/day. The estimated water demand in urban areas is 100 l/person/d. This is still lower than the average water consumption of other major cities such as Singapore, Cape Town, Amsterdam and Melbourne. This relatively low rate is adopted based on the assumption that substantial water demand management strategies would be implemented as the city is being developed. No Sector Villages Villages with Water Villages Without Water % of non-accessibility 46 1 KANAMA 48 2 BUGESHI 54 3 NYUNDO 36 4 MUDENDE 21 5 KANZENZE 35 6 RUBAVU 48 7 NYAMYUMBA 26 8 NYAKILIBA 9 RUGERERO 51 10 BUSASAMANA 49 38 11 CYANZARWE 66 12 GISENYI 518 Total Figure 21:Status of water in sectors of Rubavu District by 2022 8 13 23 24 16 27 39 24 48 47 37 66 372 38 35 31 12 5 8 9 2 3 2 1 0 146 83% 73% 57% 33% 24% 23% 19% 8% 6% 4% 3% 0% 28% The DLUP will focus on how to increase water access in the sectors with low accessibility. 4.7.4 Guidelines for Future Water Lines Distribution in Rubavu District In line with the projected population growth, water demands will increase in both urban and rural areas. In 2050, Rubavu Secondary City will need to supply nearly 67,000m3/day of potable water to its residents. This is significantly higher than the current potable water supply of 23,000 m3/day from the existing water treatment plant (Wasac). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 112 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025135 In order to meet the national goal of providing 100% of the population with access to water, the following guideline is proposed: • Rural Residential Zone/Low-Density Residential Areas (R1B/ R1A) / – Community standpipes accessible within 500m (40 l/person/day) • Urban/ High and Medium Density Residential Areas (R2, R3, R4)– Individual household connections (100 l/person/day). The following table shows the estimated supply at the treatment facility to serve the future demand. A unit ratio of 0.03 Ha / Ml has been used to determine the space allocation for the proposed plant size with its upgrade. The current site of the Gihira Water Treatment Plan is sufficiently sized for the proposed upgrades. 2022 Current Capacity (m3/day) Demand (m3/day) 2035 Proposed Capacity (m3/day) Space Required (Ha) Demand (m3/day) 2050 Proposed Capacity (m3/day) Space Required (Ha) 23,000 54,618 55,000 1.65 66,912 67,000 2 Table 25: 2050 Proposed Water Supply in Rubavu District / Gihira WTP The provision of bulk water infrastructure aligns with the areas in which the population density increases. Most of the water supply within the city would be distributed through the extension of the existing water supply network. Where the network is planned, valves and meters are needed at cross connections. The planning of the water distribution network expansion is based on the following factors: • Level of service - the water supply in rural and urban areas will differ. The rural areas (R1B) will have a bulk water line for the provision of stand pipes accessible to all communities within 500m. The water networks in urban areas will run along the road network to ensure that each stand is provided with an individually-metered connection. • Water demand distribution - The expansion of the existing water supply network focuses on areas of high future demands, by considering the changes in land use. Additionally, to map all water water network and facilities to facilitate future planning project. • Topography – The expansion of the network is considered in areas where the elevation is not significantly higher than the existing network, i.e. where pumping is still reasonable. • Integration of services – The planning of the water supply and distribution networks will consider the provision of all other services in the city. Additionally, as population increas also to increase capacity of the existing treatment plants and proposing additional plants in both urban and Rural areas. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 113 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025136 4.8 Agriculture and Livestock in Rubavu District Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of the district. This is the same at national level, whereby agriculture in Rwanda plays a dual role, in generating income and foreign currency through export of agricultural products (mainly coffee and tea) and in generating food for the local population. In a realistic scenario for Rubavu District and the country in general, within 20 years, 80% of farmers are commercial and the consumption of livestock products rises to 10% of the diet. Even if the yields were to improve to best practice, the existing farmland cannot provide food for 22.1 million people due to the topography, the climate and competition over land. According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, the current agricultural land of 10,949 km2 (41.6%) is to be protected and is to expand to 12,433 km2 (47.2%) to achieve Vision 2050, and to satisfy the needs of future generations. Farmers should not be more than 30% of the projected population, only about 8% of the workforce will be employed in commercial agriculture, and agriculture should contribute less than 10% to the GDP. The average land per farmer ratio should be around 1.5 hectares in a consolidated form. Scattered settlements in agricultural land will gradually be eliminated by agglomerating the population in a national settlement structure, thus decongesting the agricultural zones and allowing for the use of technology in agriculture. in NLUDMP 2020-2050, the Western Province has been categorized as Land Use Category A (LUCA A), which is greatly fertile land with potential for agriculture. This means that agriculture should be further developed, so that cultivated land grows in size and yields improve optimally. In 2050, the agricultural ratio should be around 0.75 hectares/farm (household). 4.8.1 Existing Agricultural Land in Rubavu District Rubavu District has good soil for agriculture, favorable climate and presence of water bodies. This district has nine sectors in the north with rich soils for production of crops like maize, potatoes, and rice. Currently, 51% of the total district land area is used for agriculture. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 114 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025137 Figure 22: Key cash crops According to the Rubavu Secondary City Master Plan (2020), a total of 750 ha have good potential for conventional irrigation in Rubavu District, wetlands constitute 367 ha (49%) while lake domains constitute 383 ha (51%). The total water required for irrigation is about 6.5 mm³, partitioned into 3.7 mm³ for wetlands and 2.9 mm³ for the lake areas. Access to roads and the electrical power grid from these sites is good. Land currently cultivated per household is 0.33 ha, which is below the national average (0.59 ha), the rural average (0.4 ha), and the urban average (0.43 ha). Utilization rate of pesticides is 42%, and chemical fertilizers 46.5%. This is higher than the use of improved seeds (14%) and organic fertilizers (13%). Fertilizer use increased from 34% in 2013 to 40% in 2018, which was in line with the DDP target. Productivity on priority crops also increased as follows; • Maize increased from 3.5MT per hectare in 2013 to 5MT per hectare in 2018, • Beans from 1.7MT per hectare in 2013 to 2.6MT per hectare in 2018, • Irish potatoes from 22.4MT per hectare in 2013 to 30.2 MT per hectare in 2018. As part of efforts to promote use of improved seeds, Rubavu District currently has six greenhouses for Irish potato seeds multiplication. The district also has 20 storage facilities with a capacity of storing 1,442 T in 2018. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 115 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025138 Land on higher altitudes have a favorable climate for livestock and breeding of cattle. The number of households that keep livestock is below 30% in total. In the area near Gishwati farmland, modern livestock farming is practiced with a total of 24 improved breeds of cows. Cattle are raised for milk production and meat. As the majority of the population is engaged in agriculture, the sector is considered as the main driver of economic development in the district. However, it faces various challenges including access to oriented markets for pigs, poultry, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits. There is also inadequate infrastructure such as road networks. The following tables are providing more details on annual agriculture production by specific crops. No Sectors 756.78 1,960.4 1 Bugeshi 2 Busasamana 3 Cyanzarwe 4 Gisenyi 5 Kanama 6 Kanzenze 7 Mudende 8 Nyakiriba 9 Nyamyumba 10 Nyundo 11 Rubavu 12 Rugerero Total Table 26: Annual Production of Maize in Rubavu District 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 7.7 560 877 0 2704 518 807 908 235 770 143 35 7564.7 717,1 3785.36 4325 0 14839,2 2483.9 4035 4290 2000 3509.4 1223.8 0 25,652 5,275.7 974.7 245.31 2,773.48 779.20 1,451 315 43.56 14,575 Maize 2018/2019 2019/2020 2021/2022 0 636.8 1440 0 5379.7 8656 0 5379.7 1049.866 35.8 1540.2 935.8 1002 363 105 24,447 2525 687.5 8788 1238.5 1077.34 1094 61.5 33.5 17,582 0 2738.82 3105 0 877.6 1594.4 1759 961 1060.72 1078.6 1271 1390 15836.14 No Sectors 1 Bugeshi 2 Busasamana 3 Cyanzarwe 4 Gisenyi 5 Kanama 6 Kanzenze 7 Mudende 8 Nyakiriba 9 Nyamyumba 10 Nyundo 11 Rubavu 12 Rugerero Total 2015/2016 1788,9 1805.4 4774.4 10 1158 1311.7 1564.8 2052.5 3209 2257.2 3082.9 4015.6 25241.5 2016/2017 638 673 1482 4 326 472 481 685 958.5 842 1223 1427 9211.5 Beans 2017/2018 1,338.2 1,283.3 3,223.7 766.1 742 627.39 1,464.8 2,275.50 1,143.6 1,838.6 1,937.6 16,640.79 2018/2019 1484 1409.31 1091 0 1409.31 708.443 2381.2 754 2381 12729 1773 2343 28,463.26 2019/2020 811.5 558.14 1600 753 943 3822 595 2292.6 1362.7 1078 1929.2 15,745.14 2021/2022 8500 1473.36 2994.6 0 1189.4 846.6 740 1003 2244.4 1224.1 2449 2419 25,083.46 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 116 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025139 Table 27: Annual Production of Beans in Musanze District No Sectors Irish potatoes 2017/2018 47,285 41,364 20,512.8 1 Bugeshi 2 Busasamana 3 Cyanzarwe 4 Gisenyi 5 Kanama 6 Kanzenze 7 Mudende 8 Nyakiriba 9 Nyamyumba 10 Nyundo 11 Rubavu 12 Rugerero 2015/2016 56455 55449.7 20400 0 25980 22971 38843 1849 0 0 0 0 221947.7 2016/2017 1536,2 1495 621 0 866 734 1353 79 0 0 0 0 6684,2 22,732 21,815 45,668.80 1,800 - - - - 153,892.6 Table 28: Annual Production of Irish Potatoes in Rubavu District Total 2018/2019 51840 19941.4 2106 0 19941.4 28080 0 42372 0 0 0 0 164,280.8 2019/2020 23714 20924.2 15000 6840 12827.5 6335 26270 0 0 0 0 111,910.7 2022/2022 55909 60120.93 33240 0 15055 17517 57460 28226 0 0 0 0 267,527.9 Statistical trend Coffee Year 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 T/ha 184 72 142 357 181 184 282.1888 131.785 175.4 247.3 Statistical trend Pyrethrum Year 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 T/ha 129.2 165.29 149.3 161.78 147.4 184.4 137.4 147.9 194.3 116.2 Year 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21 2569.5 2340.7 2397.07 T/ha 2274.4 2372.1 2200.4 2359.6 2437.8 2490.7 2589.3 Statistical trend Tea Table 29: Cash Crops Annual Production in Rubavu District (Tones) 4.8.1.1 Agriculture land Slope classification of in Rubavu District The varied slopes of Rubavu District offer a range of land suitable for agriculture. Gently sloping land (between 0% and 6%) makes up over (27.40%) of the district's agricultural area, providing ideal conditions for farming. An even larger portion (57.9%) has moderate slopes ranging from 6% to 30%, which is also well-suited for agricultural activities. Steeper slopes, accounting for 13.6% of the land, can still be used for some agricultural purposes. However, a small area (1.2%) with slopes exceeding 55% is considered environmentally sensitive and should be preserved. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 117 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025140 Table 30: Rubavu s percent of land per slop category 4.8.2 Rubavu Proposed Agriculture Land As a large amount of the population in Rubavu District is dependent on agricultural activities, it is important to ensure a good balance between built-up area and agricultural land. Thus, the agricultural land has to be protected, consolidated and efficiently utilized. The potential irrigation area is important to be maintained, and ensure it is optimized for agricultural activities. These areas are mainly located along the low lying valleys, rivers, waterbodies, and wetlands. The less suitable agricultural zone is the remaining cropland which could be used to accommodate the expansion of urban areas and settlements. However, any such expansion shall be minimized by encouraging dense urbanization and effective use of land. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 118 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025141 Map 21: Proposed Agriculture Land In addition to the above zones, agriculture will be allowed in less sensitive wetlands, as identified by REMA under the specified conditions for respective wetland categories. In total, approximately 18.300Ha (46.8%) of the district land is reserved for agriculture of which 5.480Ha (12.9%) is for urban agriculture. The following table illustrates the proposed land for agriculture per sector in Rubavu District. SECTOR Area (Ha) POTENTIAL PRODUCTION 2122.2322 Food crops: maize and Irish potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee BUGESHI BUSASAMANA 2281.9588 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee CYANZARWE 2382.2954 Food crops: maize and Irish potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee 1.761633 Food crops: Maize and Irish potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee; GISENYI Pisciculture, 2889.5505 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee 1062.5537 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop:Coffee 2069.3209 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee 999.14673 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee KANAMA KANZENZE MUDENDE NYAKILIBA NYAMYUMBA 903.96408 Food crops: Maize and potatoes;Cash crop:Coffee, Pisciculture NYUNDO RUBAVU Table 31: Agriculture land & potential production 1512.2165 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee 1299.5107 Food crops: Maize and potatoes; Cash crop: Coffee, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 119 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025142 4.8.3 Planned Green Agriculture Practices For sustainable use of the land allocated to agriculture, it is essential to protect, freeze and consolidate the land and to ensure that sustainable agricultural practices and techniques are used. e.g. the use of organic fertilizer and adopting climate resilient crops. In addition, urban agriculture should be promoted to address food security and as a way to increase infiltration in the built-up areas. 4.8.4 Live stock Livestock plays a significant role in Rubavu District's agricultural sector. Nearly 30% of households in the district raise livestock, with an even higher proportion (over 50%) in the rural Bugeshi sector. This focus on livestock husbandry is likely due to several factors, Rubavu District experiences moderate temperatures and receives annual rainfall between 1200 mm and 1500 mm . This range is suitable for raising various livestock species additionally While land area is limited in Rubavu, some sectors like Kanama and Cyanzarwe may have sufficient grazing land for livestock production. Distribution of private households engaged in raising different types of livestock, by Sector most private households are considerably more engaged in raising cows, goats, and chicken than other livestock. It is in the same extent in Rubavu district. The sectors that have high proportion of private households that are engaged in livestock are: Bugeshi, Cyanzarwe, Kanama, Mudende, Nyakiriba and Nyundo sectors No Sectors livestock number Cows Goats Sheep Pigs Rabbits Chickens 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Bugeshi 2,042 Busasamana 791 Cyanzarwe 1,202 Gisenyi Kanama 451 1,572 Kanzenze 915 Mudende Nyakiriba 1,630 1,083 131 233 706 153 587 146 144 333 Nyamyumba 947 1,061 10 Nyundo 1,944 424 2,287 62 2,143 1,618 35 933 651 1,910 701 375 942 225 397 112 205 55 69 148 795 672 13 28 16 20 38 10 17 21 184 303 278 166 366 465 389 147 197 411 934 724 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 120 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025143 11 12 Rubavu Rugerero 722 834 1,070 835 311 383 830 678 51 154 1,122 1,165 Table 32: Livestock status in Rubavu District 4.8.5 Planning perspectives for Agriculture and livestock in Rubavu District Planning for agriculture means giving it the importance it deserves. It's about recognizing how farms and fresh food are essential for our communities to thrive. To achieve this, governments at various levels (state, regional, local) can create policies that help farms be profitable and keep farmland healthy. This might involve zoning laws that specifically protect farmland and prevent it from being divided up for other uses. • Improving Fodder Production and Management in the district specifically in the livestock areas near Gishwati buffer zones • Breed Improvement and Artificial Insemination (AI) Program development within the district. • Upgrading of the Nkamira milk processing center as well as establishment of Collection systems for milk value addition in the district • Establishment of the improved Veterinary Laboratories in the distric Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 121 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025144 4.9 Environmental and Natural Resources A healthy environment is a key prerequisite to enhancing quality of life, sustainable economic growth, and poverty reduction. Key in implementing the NLUDMP 2020-2050, is to ensure harmonization of land allocation for each sector while at the same time ensuring efforts in conservation of natural resources and their sustainable use. Increased public awareness of environmental protection and climate change resilience is key to ensure sustainable development. Therefore, the environmental committees at district and sector levels should be set up to train the public on environmental protection and sustainability, and climate change resilience. An inventory to identify and assess the biodiversity in valuable ecosystems in the district is required to assure the protection and management of these areas, as ecosystems are made up of both biotic and abiotic elements. 4.9.1 Forestry According to the NLUDMP 2020-2050, forests have a significant role to play in Rwanda’s national development. They provide 86% of the primary energy source, mainly for domestic cooking energy. But forests also hold the base for the country’s tourism opportunities, which in 2023 generated USD 620 million (2023 Rwanda Development Board Annual Report). In addition, forests protect watersheds and downstream wetlands, supporting agriculture and generating products of the country’s export revenues. Forests are a vital component of the life-support system and ecological benefits. Therefore, Rwanda is to achieve and sustain a forest cover of 30%. The most recent data on forestry in Rwanda, forest cover is about 7,250 km2 which is equivalent to 30.4% of the dry land. Out of this, 53.5% are forest plantations, 23% is wooded savannah, 18% are natural mountain rain-forests, and 6% are shrubs. In addition, bamboo occupies only 613 ha (8%) mainly grown along the buffer zones of rivers (Rwanda Forest Cover, 2019). 4.9.1.1 Existing Forests in Rubavu District Rubavu District currently has 8,370 Ha of forests including the buffer of Gishwati Forest. The forests are mainly found in the sectors of Kanzenze, Nyakiriba and Kanama. The forest contains around 100 bird species and 16 large tree species, which presents a tourism potential in the district. In addition to ecosystem services, the forests also prevent soil erosion and landslides. The following map shows forest cover in Rubavu District (Rwanda Forest Cover, 2019). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 122 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025145 Map 22: Existing Forest Cover in Rubavu District The palm trees in the buffer zones along Lake Kivu are habitats to bats and bird species. The 50 m wide buffer zone is protected from human activities by Law No 48/2018 of 13/8/2018 on Environment. However, the zone is under pressure from infrastructure development and agricultural activity that do not respect the 50 m buffer zone activity restrictions. The large population in the district is putting pressure on the forest resources. Wood is the most commonly used fuel source by households. Consumption of and demand for fuel wood has grown, leading to increased scarcity of locally available sources of fuel. Based on the needs of 1.1m3 of wood per inhabitant/year, and an average forest productivity of 8m3/ha, the district is facing a huge deficit in the local supply of wood resources (Rwanda Forest Cover, 2019). In recent years, forests in Rubavu District have experienced a sharp decline. Forest coverage in the district has however been decreasing in the last two decades. Factors contributing to this reduction include converting woodland into agricultural land or pasture, bush fires, lack of forest maintenance and mismanagement, and encroachment for residential uses. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 123 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025146 In addition to loss of biodiversity, the effects of forest shrinkage include a negative balance between available resources and needs, an increase in use of crop residues as energy sources, loss of soil nutrients, and accelerated erosion on hills and siltation of rivers. 4.9.1.2 Forest Planning Perspectives in Rubavu District The NLUDMP 2020-2050 advocates and recommends for protection of environmentally sensitive areas and mainstreaming disaster risk reduction in the development process. Therefore, it is necessary to protect all identified forest (6,168.82 ha) as well as increasing forest cover by utilizing high slope areas (above 55%) that are not yet covered by forest in the district. This would allow for 4531.06 ha of forest to contribute to the increase in forest cover in the district. The following map shows the identified areas for forest cover in the district. Map 23: Planned forestry land in Rubavu District Rubavu District is committed to addressing the forestry issue by increasing forest coverage and protecting existing forest. The existing forest edge requires protection from encroachment for agriculture and livestock activities to ensure that Rubavu District continues to develop in a sustainable way, while maintaining its environmental assets. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 124 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025147 In addition to reforestation and afforestation, tree planting along roads and greening of public spaces should be adopted. There should also be efforts made to raise public awareness on suitable plant and tree species that are both ecologically and economically valuable. 4.9.2 Swamplands and Water Bodies Swaplands, or wetlands, provide critical habitats for wildlife and biodiversity, maintain important hydrologic processes essential in cleaning and protecting the surface and groundwater, and support a variety of local livelihoods. Rwanda has a high wetland cover of approximately 276,500 ha, where 74% of the wetlands are under conditional exploitation, 6% are under full exploitation, and 20% are fully protected. Swamplands, or wetlands, also have an important role in adapting to a changing climate. They buffer large volumes of water during heavy rains, preventing downstream areas from flooding and mitigating erosion and soil loss. As the wetlands hold large amounts of water, they can also mitigate effects of drought (Rwanda Forest Cover, 2019). 4.9.2.1 Existing Situation of Swamplands in Rubavu District Due to the topography, there are few wetlands in Rubavu District. The main swampland in Rubavu City is Gitsimbi, a non-gazetted wetland. It is located between Rubona Cell in Nyamyumba Sector and Rushubi Cell in Rugerero Sector. Most of the 1.275 Ha Gitsimbi swampland is under sugarcane cultivation. Though many wetlands in Rubavu District are used for agriculture, no specific swampland development program exists. The following map shows the existing swamplands to be well conserved for sustainability purposes. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 125 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025148 Map 24: Wetlands localization in Rubavu District 4.9.2.2 Planning Perspectives of Wetlands in Rubavu District Except for a small portion of Nyamwenda Rwampyisi swampland (3.7 ha) which is under conditional use, all 482 ha of wetlands are open for the exclusive use of agriculture. However, a wetland master plan study is required to ensure whether some swamplands are required to be protected to conserve or restore the wetlands’ ecological integrity and protect them from non-sustainable exploitation. In addition, all the buffer zones of the swamplands (109 ha) need to be conserved, and their use in accordance with the national wetlands management framework for Rwanda which is also stated in the zoning regulation. 4.9.2.3 Water Bodies in Rubavu District Lake Kivu is the most ecologically sensitive area in Rubavu District. It is among the Great Lakes of Africa and is shared with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lake Kivu occupies an area of 2,370 km2, of which about 1,000 km2 (42%) lies within Rwandan territory. Lake Kivu has an average depth of 240 m and a maximum depth of 490 m. There are a total of 250 islands in the lake, with a land area of 315 km2. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 126 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025149 Studies have found that Lake Kivu contains approximately 60 km3 and 300 km3 (STP) of dissolved methane and carbon dioxide respectively. The gas poses a risk to all the oxygen dependent life in the vicinity of the lake. However, the methane gas also provides an energy resource. Lake Kivu is a major source of economic activities such as fishing, water-based transport, methane gas for energy generation, in addition to the ecosystem and biodiversity services as well as opportunities for scientific research. Sebeya is the main river in the district with a catchment area of 286 km2, spanning the districts of Rutsiro, Ngororero, Nyabihu, and Rubavu. During the dry season (July to August), surface water flows are sustained, and there is a moderate hydrological response during the short rainy season (September to December), when infiltration to ground waters significantly reduces direct runoff. Monthly flows increase during the long rainy season (February/May), indicating that groundwater reserves are completely replenished at this time. 4.9.2.4 Planning Perspective for Water Bodies in Rubavu District Water bodies have to be protected for their economic and ecological value. There is a need to ensure that all water bodies in the district and their buffer zones, totaling just above 4,910 ha, are fully protected, including the islands in Lake Kivu. Prohibition of settlements should be enforced within 50m of Lake Kivu and Sebeya River, and within 10m for other rivers. Buffer zones may be subject to conditional use, for example for tourism, agriculture and forestry. There is an opportunity for water-based transport on Lake Kivu to be developed with the guidance of REMA, RWB, MININFRA and other concerned institutions. 4.9.3 Mining in Rubavu District The Government of Rwanda recognizes that the mining sector has the potential to become one of the drivers of long-term sustainable growth through economic transformation, industrialization and inclusive growth taking into account environmental and social considerations and green mining techniques. A variety of minerals can be found in Rwanda such as cassiterite, wolframite, gold, and iron and gemstones such as amethyst, sapphire, and topaz. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 127 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025150 4.9.3.1 Existing situation Common minerals available in Rubavu District include coltan, cassiterite, and wolfram. The mining concession areas are located in the south of the Rubavu-Musanze corridor in Nyamyumba, close to Lake Kivu and in Nyundo and Nyakiliba Sectors. Mining activities have a negative impact on the landscape, for instance on Mount Kirerema which is a potential tourism zone. In Rubavu, potential pozzolana extraction areas interfere with agriculture, settlements, roadways and other land uses. Sand extraction in Nengo Cell, Gisenyi Sector is the main quarrying activity in Rubavu City and at various sites along Sebeya River. The sand harvesting practices encroach on the river banks and buffer zones which result in river and river bank degradation. The District has tried to organize the sand operators in recent years. Other mining concessions are operated by cooperatives or companies at small-scale. In addition, there are illegal and/or abandoned quarries in need of rehabilitation. There is currently a lack of regular inspection to enforce good mining practice in the district which results in landscape modification, environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity and soil erosion. The following photos were taken in Rubavu District showing quarries that will require rehabilitation for environmental safeguarding and conservation. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 128 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025151 Figure 23: Quarries in Rubavu District 4.9.3.2 Environmental Planning Implications Traditional mining affects the environment, causing land degradation, soil erosion and landslides. There is also a need for promoting processing and transformation of mining products for export. Low employment of skilled labor and poor infrastructure network to mining sites are some of the constraints. The following table provides the measures to be taken into consideration in order to promote sustainable mining.anner. Mining/Quarry Land use Area-Ha Recommendation Activities type District & State Main 11.9 The environmental management plan must be Quarries Pozzolana Extraction implemented. Overlay 1,152.0 They must be assessed for their influence on the landscape change. Mining Concession Overlay 726.9 RAP and impact analysis must be used before Table 33: Recommendations for sustainable land use in Mining and Quarries implementation. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 129 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025152 Abandoned quarries have a negative impact on the surrounding ecosystem, pose a risk of incidents, and cause erosion. Thus, abandoned quarries are allocated for conservation (restoration or rehabilitation) rather than intended for development projects. The district, together with stakeholders in environmental inspection, shall enforce the programs for orderly decommissioning, rehabilitation, restoration, and utilization of mining sites after operations, to ensure the development of a mining drainage and leachate management plan to avoid impacts on rivers, streams and water quality. 4.9.3.3 Modernize mining techniques and expand mineral value by additional exports Prioritize increased value addition for mineral and quarry products to reach the international and local market expectations. The private sector will be attracted to invest in mineral processing and value addition. The artisanal mining sector will be professionalized through training, financing and equipment. Also, consolidating small mining concessions into district mining blocks to meet national quality standards. Rubavu District targets to promote industrialization and attain a structural shift in the export base to high value goods and services. With the aim of growing exports by 17% annually, it hopes to increase the quantity of mining products exported from Rubavu. As a strategic intervention it has been envisioned to promote the processing and transformation of mining products for export from Rubavu. 4.9.4 Waste Management in Rubavu District The amount of solid and liquid waste is increasing as a result of rapid population growth and migration from rural to urban regions. This has a significant socio-economic and environmental impact on the solid and liquid waste management systems. The goal is to provide 100% of the population with access to improved types of sanitation systems by 2050. Improved sanitation systems include flush toilets, Ecosan toilets and pit latrines with solid slabs. In Rubavu District, solid waste management is one of the main challenges as is the case in many developing countries. Efficient collection and disposal of solid waste is critical to protect the environment as well as for the health of the population. In order to address these concerns an Integrated Waste Management Plan (IWMP) is required for Rubavu District in both rural and urban areas. In general, waste in Rwanda is classified in four categories: solid, medical, hazardous and liquid waste. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 130 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025153 4.9.4.1 Liquid Waste: Existing Situation Current methods of wastewater disposal include on-site containment systems such as pit latrines and septic tanks. In most cases, when the pit latrine is full, it is abandoned and replaced with a new one. The maintenance responsibility of these facilities on a household level lies with the owner, in both rural and urban areas. Some institutions and private entities have onsite wastewater treatment systems and the treated effluent is discharged to stormwater drainage channels. This might cause environmental pollution due to non- compliance with wastewater effluent standards. This may also put additional strain on the stormwater infrastructure that is not sized for waste water. The treatment techniques are detailed by each institution, in an environmental impact study, which is then issued to REMA/RDB for approval. The sewer flow is estimated based on the assumption that 80% of the water consumption would be collected as waste water by the sewerage network. However, there is currently no centralized sewer network in Rubavu District. 4.9.4.2 Liquid Waste: Planning Perspectives On-site sanitation and semi centralized systems, on a small scale, remain the most viable options for wastewater treatment and disposal in Rubavu District. Only in areas where the population densities are high will it be more practical to build a centralized wastewater system with a piped sewer network. Careful water source monitoring by relevant institutions is required due to increased release of un- treated wastewater especially from industries and hotels, thus providing high levels of pollutants leading to environmental degradation. Due to the water table in Rubavu Secondary City, groundwater quality monitoring is to be done, and deep pits are to be avoided as far as possible to prevent contamination of the groundwater. Moreover, the provision of training of district technicians on sustainable wastewater management measures needs to be undertaken. 4.9.4.3 Solid Waste: Existing Situation The EICV5 has been used to assess the waste management facilities in the District. Currently, 63% of all citizens in Rubavu District dispose of their waste by dumping it in nearby bushes or fields or within their own plots. This poses an environmental and health hazard. Within Rurban and rural settlement sites, solid waste are disposed into fields, with the exception of some commercial areas and markets that have use waste collection companies. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 131 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025154 Solid waste management in Rubavu Secondary City is handled by the Infrastructure Department of the City. The collection and transportation of household solid waste in Rubavu District is handled by ACAPE cooperative and AGRUNI Company Ltd. The collected waste is taken to the public dump site located in Rutagara Village, Rukoko Cell, Rubavu Sector, located approximately 5 km from Rubavu Secondary City. This is an uncontrolled site managed by the District, and the waste is not sorted although AGRUNI Company Ltd recycles some organic waste at the dump site. Waste collection is mainly done in the city-center and its surroundings, due to limited financial capacity and awareness. 4.9.4.4 Planning Perspectives The Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC) plans to build a 5 Ha landfill and faecal sludge treatment plant in the same location as the existing dump site. The construction of this facility will improve the overall management of solid waste in the District, including storage, collection, transportation, disposal, treatment and recycling of waste. The faecal sludge treatment plant will have a capacity of 150 m³/day by 2025, and the landfill will have a 100,000 m3 capacity. In addition, key issues to be addressed by the district include illegal dumping of waste along Sebeya River, in bushes and in fields and to promote awareness and training to district officials and technicians on sustainable waste management. For facilitating waste management needs within the district, waste disposal sites were proposed outside of Kabumba Ruraban, and in Kanzenze, Busasamana, and Cyanzarwe to supplement the main landfill. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 132 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025155 Map 25: Proposed Disposal Sites in Rubavu District N0 Sector Settlement Structure Urban Disposal Area Rubavu Main Landfill 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Gisenyi Rubavu Nyamyumba Rugerero Nyundo Nyakiriba Kanama Bugeshi Mudende Rurban Mudende solid waste transfer area 10 Kanzenze Rural settlements and emerging centers Kanzenze solid waste transfer area 11 Busasamana 12 Cyanzarwe Busasamana solid waste transfer area Cyanzarwe solid waste transfer area Table 34: Localization of waste disposal sites in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 133 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025156 However, in order to prevent illegal dumping of solid waste, an efficient waste collection system must be in place along with a public awareness campaign in urban areas and the main emerging centers. Recycling practices must be introduced in all settlements for resource sustainability as well as land use efficiency. 4.9.4.5 Industry and other Waste Management Plans The National Government will regularly identify priority sectors of the economy that will be required to develop waste management plans in accordance with the principles of extended producer responsibility and cleaner production. This will be done within the new regulatory framework and will set clear guidelines for planning, including financing mechanisms, phasing out of harmful substances, measures to reduce disposal to landfill, and targets and timeframes for implementation. The following list are key industries identified during the strategy development, with relevant strategies for improved waste management, that will be prioritized for mandatory industry waste management plans; Waste type Guidance on how to reduce waste Timeframe Construction • Waste reduction guidelines to be led by the Rwanda Green Building Short to and demolition Organization medium term waste • Green building certification requirements introduced for public building projects • Green procurement policies Agricultural • Develop educational materials and guidelines for waste prevention in Short to waste the sector • Waste sources with nutrients should be reused/treated • medium term Farmers should be supported in determining the feasibility of biogas production through anaerobic digestion for possible onsite electricity generation Mining waste • Establish regulations that require all mines to develop waste Medium term management plans, aligned to the duty of care principle. • Develop a monitoring and compliance framework to ensure plans are implemented and social and environmental impacts are minimized Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 134 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025157 Waste water • Establish regulations for the safe handling, management, and disposal Medium term treatment plant of sludge • Evaluate potential to incorporate sludge with organic waste sludges treatment processes to enhance quality of products Hazardous and • Aligned to the new integrated regulatory system for waste management Short to industrial (Section 5.2.1), all wastes to be classified and managed according to risk medium term wastes (e.g. • Phasing out of hazardous substances and chemicals in products using paints and direct regulation and economic instruments to incentivise cleaner solvents, production • Introduce landfill bans for waste types that could be automotive recycled/ reused • Extended producer responsibility/compulsory take wastes, back schemes for designated waste streams (e.g. tyres, batteries, CFLs) pesticides) Electronic • Phasing out of hazardous substances and chemicals in products by Short to wastes incentivising cleaner production processes • Extended producer medium term responsibility/compulsory take back schemes for electronic products Medical wastes • Promote practices and develop guidelines to minimise waste generated Short to • Develop systems in hospitals and clinics to separate waste (segregating medium term general and hazardous wastes) and promote environmentally friendly methods of treatment and disposal Nuclear waste • Develop a policy and regulation framework for nuclear/radioactive Short to waste management (Ministry of Infrastructure , 2016) • Finalise radiation medium term law currently under development Table 35: Industry Waste Management Plans 4.9.5 Stormwater Management 4.9.5.1 Existing Situation In order to improve the drainage system in the District and to ensure that the buffer zones of water bodies are correctly delineated, a more detailed Stormwater master plan should be developed. The Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 135 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025158 stormwater master plan should follow a planning approach which aims to minimize flood risk through on-site retention, improve the quality of discharge and to integrate the storm water infrastructure into the urban setting. It should be planned based on the following criteria: – – – – – Removal of pollutant at source; Slowdown of stormwater runoff; Storm water retention; Stormwater reuse and Beautification of the existing and future waterways. The following information on the storm water catchments in Rubavu has been taken from the ‘Final Feasibility Report: Rwanda 2016’`, by Voyants Solutions PVT.LTD and HICE Consult. Rubavu District is divided into five sub-catchments based on possible outfall locations as well as the topography. The overall slope is falling towards Lake Kivu. In general, only the main roads have drainage systems. This includes a series of channels, not all with cover slabs. Although these systems exist, they are generally in a poor state and require urgent maintenance. During strong rains, soil is washed down from the hills into the drainage channels. Since most of the households in urban and rural areas use pits for rainwater harvesting, with the limited drainage along the roads, the overflow from residences is conveyed within the roadways. This damages roads and causes flooding in some areas. As a result of inadequacy of drainage structures, and existing ones requiring maintenance, there is flooding during heavy storms in Rubavu Secondary City. In particular, this affects the central market, the prison in the Koromero area, and the post office and Primary School in Mweya. In Busasamana Sector, Rusura Cell, there is a large drainage basin which collects water from the volcanoes that is expanding day by day, affecting adjacent neighborhoods. The storm water basin poses a risk for accidents. In the event of heavy rains, Rubavu Secondary City faces flooding along Sebeya, which affects economic development and communities by destroying infrastructures, displacing residents, and causing fatalities. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 136 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025159 Source: RWB Flood risk report, 2023 4.9.5.2 Planning Perspectives The following are ongoing storm water projects in Rubavu District: • The River Sebeya catchment area is being rehabilitated including floods control measures (construction of a retaining wall, planting of trees, terraces, flood control dam and diversion channel along the river). • The Rwanda Urban Development Project includes the construction and upgrading of roads in Rubavu Secondary City. This will also include construction of various drainage structures. It is up to the District to ensure that the drainage systems connected to the main drainage are included in any physical plan and land readjustment project. In addition, Rubavu District should encourage radical and progressive terracing as well as promote sustainable agriculture practices specifically within and near the urban boundaries to mitigate flooding and landslides. Development within the designated area for main drainages should be avoided. In addition, open storm water channels and collectors must be addressed not to pose a safety hazard for pedestrians and vehicles. Maintenance should be improved of stormwater channels to reduce siltation and the consequent impact of the drainage capacity. Training in sustainable stormwater management and measures should be provided to district technicians. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 137 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025160 There is a drainage layout of the urban and rural areas that will prevent flooding during heavy rainfall events. The carrying capacity of each produced drainage system, and flood risk maps will be developed under detailed stormwater management studies. Map 26: Drainage System in Rubavu District The issue of storm water is further escalated by lack of effective flood control mechanisms, stormwater harvesting and retention techniques, leading to runoff causing flooding at catchment points. With this in mind, the 50m buffer zone along the Sebeya River should be protected to limit any further development. The residential zones in this area will be converted to green spaces, agriculture and protected zones to protect human lives and properties. Moreover, there are other vulnerable areas identified considering topography, lake morphology and existing land use. Further Planning proposals for storm water management include the following: • During construction/implementation of Rubavuu drainage system, a study at a small scale area will be needed to add more drainage channels in urban areas. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 138 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025161 • All buildings in urban areas will have rain water harvesting systems connected to the drainage channels to ease storm water collection and conveyance. • All drainage will be constructed following the topography within urban areas. No drainage channel should require excavation against the slope. • Adjustment will be needed before implementation to reduce the cost of expropriation needed where the main drainage channels layout pass through key infrastructures. • The detailed studies should consider determining the size of potential flood hazard areas depending on the zoning. • A complete designation of inundation areas along major watercourses should be established. • To delimit all areas exposed to flood hazard risk, including the regulatory provisions, using the prepared flood hazard and flood risk maps as a mandatory basis in development. 4.10 Tourism and Heritage 4.10.1 National Context on Tourism Industry According to NLUDMP 2020-2050, the tourism sector is a major driver for Rwanda’s economic growth, development and poverty alleviation. The tourism sectors’ contribution to Rwanda’s economy has been increasing at a high rate and tourism has been growing at an average rate of over 10% per year. The direct contribution of the tourism industry in 2022 was USD 620 million, and the industry is expected to provide 469,000 jobs by 2028 (WTTC, 2018). Rubavu District will proactively contribute to developing diverse tourism products. Key niche products, with great potential for Rwanda, includes adventure, birding, and community-based tourism, and agro tourism such as tea and coffee plantations in the region. MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), coupled with required soft skills in terms of guiding and storytelling, will cater for travelers’ expectations. 4.10.2 Existing Tourism Destinations in Rubavu District Rubavu District is strategically located at Lake Kivu, by the border to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and in close proximity to national parks. There are two national border posts, La Corniche Border Post and Poids Lourds Border Post. Gisenyi Airport is approximately 3km away (8min drive) from Rubavu Public Beach. This location makes Rubavu Secondary City ideal as a business gateway and transit point for cross-border trade, as well as a tourism destination. The cross-border trade and growth in businesses have contributed to Rubavu Secondary City being the most developed city in the Western Province. Besides trade, the high level of safety and security Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 139 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025162 in Rwanda attracts a large number of visitors from DRC for business and leisure. As such, Rubavu is emerging as a “Cross Border Trade and Tourism Gateway of Rwanda” branded as “The Best City of Trade and Leisure”. The Volcanoes National Park and the Gishwati-Mukura National Park are in close proximity to Rubavu Secondary City (55km and 26km respectively) providing opportunities to link the national parks with Lake Kivu experiences, thereby extending the length of stay and expenditure. Likewise, Rubavu offers plenty of biking and hiking trails as well as community interactions, experiencing culture and heritage along the trail. Rubavu is also known for its agrotourism, with guided visits to tea and coffee plantations in the region. However, the core attraction of Rubavu is the Rubavu Public Beach. A feasibility study proposes to develop Avenue de la Cooperation into a car free zone and beach promenade with cafes, shops, and other tourism related services. Rubavu has a wide range of accommodations, ranging from 4 star to budget accommodations. There are 26 licensed accommodations in the district providing a total of 527 rooms, and additional 36 accommodations in various stages of licensing accounting for a total of more than 815 rooms. Refer https://tourismregulation.rw/en/ for RDB list of Hotels. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 140 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025163 Figure 24: Kivu Lake Public Beach in Rubavu District There are a number of existing tourism sites within the district. However, there is a lack of private sector investments in tourism infrastructure and related industries. The transport infrastructure is poor, which may affect the growth of tourism within the district. Given the proximity to Musanze, Virunga National Park and Lake Kivu, the district is yet to realize its full potential for tourism. The following map is showing the attractive destinations considered as the main touristic sites in Rubavu District Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 141 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025164 Map 27: Major Touristic Sites in Rubavu District 4.10.3 Proposals on Tourism Scheme in Rubavu District The tourism industry is key to the economic development of the district. Existing tourism sites inspire new tourism opportunities to be initiated and developed, building a professional tourism base in Rubavu District. To enhance tourism in Rubavu District, the below initiatives have been identified in sustainable tourism master plan for Rwanda 2015 as below: ● Beach facilities and water sports: Provide leisure facilities for tourists traveling along the lake shore as well as for local communities. ● Gisenyi Shopping Mall, holiday homes and casino: A new venue for retail tourism to encourage cross-border and attract international tourists. ● Lake Kivu Convention Centre: A center to attract congresses and conferences linked to Rubavu’s natural and cultural heritage. ● Gishwati Forest Development: Provides a wildlife corridor, protects habitat and extends the quality of the nature tourism resource in the west of the Country. ● Waterways development: Enables cruises on Lake Kivu. ● Hotel Strip Development: Provides high quality hotels to strengthen the tourism product, allowing access to Lake Kivu and attracting more business from DRC. ● Hot Springs Resort: Provides a high quality product and niche within wellness in the Lake Kivu Belt. ● Sport tourism development: Spreads benefit of sports tourism across the country. 4.10.4 Kivu Lake Shores and Islands Development Plan The Kivu Lakeshores Development Plan was developed by UCI Urgent CAD International for the Ministry of Infrastructure, in 2013 is integrated within the DLUP. The plan focuses on three areas designated along the Lake Kivu waterfront: Zone 1 - Tourism Services: Hotel and recreational area (beachfront recreation). Beach restaurant and cafes, playground, botanical garden, sports activity center, kiosks, public washrooms and showers. Zone 2 - Administrative Services and Residential Area (Gisenyi Public Gardens): Rubavu Secondary City as the “Flower City" - the strategy is to promote and establish Rubavu as the Capital of plants and flowers in Rwanda. Zone 3 - Residential and Hotel (The Rocky Coast): To diversify the experience of the banks of the lake by offering new ways to access the water and new equipment to connect the bank and the lake. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 142 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025165 1) Improve access to water with pontoons and bridges, 2) Sidewalks along all streets, 3) Sports equipment along the walks, 4) Creating a small marina. The urban design proposals integrated in the DLUP to further strengthen the identity of Rubavu City as a tourism hotspot. 4.11 Economic Development 4.11.1 National Context on Economic Development The World Bank provides data for Rwanda which shows that the GDP per capita reached USD 8.8 billion in 2016 (the World Bank 2016; National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, 2017). The data also indicates that Rwanda’s GDP per capita increased significantly after 1994. Rwanda aspires to provide economic prosperity, creating wealth for all Rwandans. This requires high and sustained economic growth over the long term. Rwanda’s aspirations are translated as becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2035, and a high-income country by 2050. Quantitatively, this means that the GDP per capita should reach USD 4,036 by 2035, and over USD 12,476. Rwanda projects the population to increase by more than 50% to 17.6 million by 2035 and to double to about 22.1 million people by 2050. During this period, the share of the working-age population is expected to grow from around 56% to 66% in 2050. 4.11.2 Existing Employment Opportunities in Rubavu District a) Economic opportunities Rubavu has seen one of the highest numbers of business establishments compared to other Secondary Cities. The majority of business establishments are micro enterprises utilizing opportunities linked to cross border trade and the location next to Lake Kivu, both providing huge potential for businesses. In addition, the fertile soils in the district provide a potential for agriculture production (DDS Rubavu 2028-2024). However, the bulk of commercial activity is heavily concentrated within Rubavu Secondary City. As a result, there is a need to devote considerable attention to agriculture activities in rural areas. This will reduce geographical inequalities. Adequate infrastructure will allow the expansion of opportunities at a faster rate than other districts. There is an opportunity to further tap this growth and create a conducive environment for business to grow into larger enterprises that will employ more people. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 143 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025166 b) Current status of employment in Rubavu District According to EICV5, the working age population in Rubavu District was approximately 243,000 with a workforce to population ratio of 78.2 %. In terms of job status, the breakdown is as follows: 23.7% were engaged in wage farming activities, 28.9 % in non-wage farming activities, 23.6% were independent farmers, 20.8 % were independent non-farmers and 3% were unpaid farmers. Furthermore, when considering the distribution of these individuals across broad economic sectors, 55.9 % were employed in agriculture sector, 10.9 % in industry and 33.2 % in services. Recognizing the significance of employment creation in addressing the country’s rapid population growth, poverty reduction, and overall economic growth, the government has made it a priority. In the Rubavu District Development strategy for 2018-2024, it is outlined that the aim is to create 61,000 off farm jobs by 2024, with a particular emphasis on empowering youth and women. RLFS 2022 also classifies the employment by branches of economic activity for the population over 16 years old a visual as illustrated below: Figure 25: Employment by economic activity in Rubavu District The above figure reveals that the agriculture sector dominates and represents 37.5 % of total employment in the district, highlighting its pivotal role as a primary employer and its importance in sustaining livelihoods. Wholesale and retail trade, as well as vehicle and motorcycle repair follow at 15.9 % of total employment. Construction makes up 12 % and plays a crucial role in both infrastructure development and job creation, thereby fostering economic growth. Transportation and storage Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 144 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025167 contribute 9.7 %. The remaining 24.7 % of Rubavu's total employment is distributed across other sectors, as illustrated in the figure above. 4.11.3 Proposals on Employment Opportunities in Rubavu District The socio-economic study for Rubavu District projects that there will be about 674,200 jobs by 2050. Of these, 48% will be within manufacturing and construction, and 34% in trade and services mainly within urban areas. 18% are envisioned to be in the primary sector (agriculture and mining) in rural areas. Within the secondary and tertiary sectors, 66% of employment opportunities will be generated in and around Rubavu Secondary City, 24% in the secondary node (Mahoko), and 7% within Rurban Centers. Some of the key considerations for job distribution are as follows: ● Around 70% of the service sector jobs are assumed to be centered around the primary growth node, 14% in Kabumba Rurban and the remaining commercial services distributed to tertiary and other growth nodes. ● Jobs related to agriculture, livestock and forestry are expected to remain in rural areas of the district. ● Jobs in construction, materials industry and mining will continue to be available in the proposed urban area. 4.11.4 Industry, Trade and Commercial Business in Rubavu District 4.11.4.1 Existing situation on Industry, Trade and Commercial Business in Rubavu District There are small-scale agro-processors in the district, including small start-up businesses which are under strict rules and regulations with which they must comply at high costs and within a short time period. New businesses must apply for operation authorization and the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) ensures the quality of products. The following table is providing details on existing factories and industries in Rubavu District. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 145 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025168 Names of Industry COOPAC Gihira Hydro Power Plant Gihira Water Treatment Plant KOADU Rutagara CAMR Rugari Meat Processing Gisenyi Hydro Power Plant Agakiriro Ka Rubavu La Reine Fromagerie Type of Industry Product fabricated No Sector Agriculture 1 Rugerero Processing 2 Rugerero Processing 3 Rugerero Agriculture 4 Nyamyumba RWACOF Agriculture 5 Nyamyumba Kigufi Washing Station Processing 6 Nyamyumba Gaz Methane Elevage 7 Rubavu Elevage 8 Giseyi Processing 9 Gisenyi Processing 10 Gisenyi Processing 11 Gisenyi Processing 12 Kanzenze Processing 13 Kanzenze Gishwati 14 Kanzenze COAMBAKA Processing 15 Kanzenze Mizingo Mutura Water Treatment Plant Processing KIAKA Koperative 16 Kanama Processing Yungwe Bikore Water Treatment Plant Processing 17 Kanama Agriculture Pfunda Tea Company 18 Nyundo Processing Keya Hydro Power Plant 19 Nyundo 20 Nyamyumba BRALIRWA Processing Table 36: Existing Industries in Rubavu District Coffee Electricity generation Water Treatment Plant Coffee Coffee Electricity generation Abattoir Abattoir Meat Processing Plant Electricity production Wood Furniture Cheese Cheese Bamboo Furniture Water Treatment Plant Handcraft Water Treatment Plant Tea Treatment of electricity Beverages Existing light and general Industries are mainly facing issues of improper distribution, and solid and liquid waste management as a lack of “Industrial Park” in Rubavu District. Another challenge is the competition small businesses face from the informal sector, which often produces similar products at a lower cost. Inyenyeri is a notable small company in x which produces briquettes from sawdust and other dry grass and turns this into improved fuels (palette). The industry’s single-phase electricity production process cannot support heavy machinery, limiting production and resulting in low production which is below market demand. As a solution, Inyenyeri requires a three-phase electricity line. Inyenyeri enjoys subsidies from NGOs such as the World Bank due to its engagement in environment protection measures. COOPAC is a notable medium-scale business in Rubavu District. COOPAC works with over 800 farmers and has eight coffee-washing stations all over the country, exporting 99% of their produce. Pfunda Tea Factory is another medium-scale industry in the district, currently owned by Indian investors who report that their main challenge is a shortage of casual tea harvesters. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 146 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025169 Raw agricultural products are exported by individual farmers and traders from Rubavu to Congo. This is due to the lack of agro-processing facilities within Rubavu. Marketplaces in the district are of low standard and are not sufficient given the number of traders and visitors. Requests for simple market structures, and improvements such as better roofing have not been adhered to. As such, the trade sector emphasizes the need to consider ample market space within the settlement areas to match the needs of the growing population. Priority needs include: • • • Construction of good markets. Development of the beach for tourism purposes. Construction of a modern hospital with facilities that meet international standards. Most of the informal trade sector is formed by a group of women who were former street vendors (abazunguzayi). The women were mobilized by Femme Active “a group of women working in the main market”, who collected resources from the group to rent a common working space. The group’s purpose was to move the abazunguzayi off the street. Femme Active is currently paying a rent of RWF 150,000 for their working spaces, which they hope to vacate as soon as they can locate a better working space. They are in the process of organizing themselves into a more formal group, such as a cooperative. The women currently work under unhygienic conditions, especially during the rainy season, when the lack of a roof is most evident. The women's lack of formal organization or business registration makes it difficult for district agencies to support them. 4.11.4.2 Proposed Plans for Industry, Trade and Commercial Business in Rubavu District The proposed commercial hierarchy for Rubavu District aligns with the urban hierarchy. Commercial centres will be developed based on location and projected population. The District level commercial centre will be developed in the center of Rubavu Secondary City. The commercial centre will serve the population within the extended settlements, as well as visitors traveling from Goma to Rubavu. Rurbans, due to its increased population, will expand the existing commercial areas. In addition, rural trade centres will continue to fulfill the needs of the rural population. Some of the key strategies for allocation of different commercial centres in Rubavu District are: Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 147 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025170 • Existing commercial areas within the urban boundary, Rugerero and Mahoko will be preserved and new commercial and sub city centers will be introduced to serve new neighborhoods and planning areas. • New commercial centers are proposed along the proposed public transport corridor. • Neighborhood commercial nodes will be supported by religious, cultural, health and civic facilities, including parks. These commercial developments, together with the above mentioned facilities, will form urban nodes within the neighborhoods. • Tourism zones with commercial facilities will be extended from the existing city center towards Gakoni along Lake Kivu. • For economic growth in line with green growth strategies, actions are required such as: • Investment in green urban infrastructure and jobs such as green building, clean energy, integrated water resources management etc. • Provide technical training for green industrial developments and support green entrepreneurship and business in relation to the raw material that are locally available. • Develop an ecological industrial park and assure compliance with green jobs. An industrial park has been mapped out in Rubavu Secondary City, to be developed as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). However, there has not been any development and there is no basic infrastructure in place. The land has to be acquired and infrastructure provided before any industry can be permitted. Rubavu District and MINICOM will be undertaking the implementation of the industrial zone and ensure the development of a green industrial park. Industries with green operations and technologies must be prioritized in order to promote greener production. Buffer zones will be respected and other green components will be considered for the industrial park. The industrial park is approximately 190 ha, of which 113 ha is intended for light industry and 78 ha for general industry. Light industry will include agro-processing, wholesale trading, logistics, storage and warehouses. General industry caters for general and heavy industry. The industrial park is located in the Rugerero and Nyakiliba Sectors in Basa, Muhira, and Bisizi Cells. In line with the country’s vision of promoting a service based economy, light industrial sites have been proposed in Rurban and emerging centres and in some rural settlement sites. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 148 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025171 4.12 Proposed Land Use and Balance Sheet in Rubavu District 4.12.1 Existing Land Use Overall, the existing land use distribution demonstrates a balanced focus on agriculture, conservation, and urban infrastructure. The following map is providing more details on the existing allocation regarding the land use for the entire district of Rubavu. Map 28: Rubavu District Existing Land Use Agriculture dominates with 53.5% of land use, indicating a strong agricultural base. Settlements and infrastructure account for 18.2%, showing urban development opportunities. Forest and conservation areas at 15%, and water bodies at 13.3%, reflect significant preservation efforts. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 149 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025172 4.12.2 Proposed Land Use for Rubavu Secondary District The proposed land use and land use zoning covers all land in both rural and urban areas in Rubavu District. Map 29: Proposed Land Use and Zoning Plan for Rubavu District The proposed land use changes by 2050 reflect a strategic shift towards more balanced and diversified land management and use within the district. There's a notable a focus on urbanization, environmental conservation, and the introduction land development strategies specialized on land uses to support sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the population. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 150 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025173 N0 Rubavu District area 1,188.2 Km2 (100%) Land use category Existing 2022 Proposed 2050 1 Agriculture 20931.5193 53.5 18471.86 47.23 Agriculture 20931.5193 53.5 18471.86 47.23 Km2 % Ha % 3 Open space and ecotourism 4 Forest 5 Afforestation Forest & conservation - 5862.346 - 5862.346 6 Commercial 7 Industrial 8 Public administration 9 Public facility 10 Residential 11 Transportation 12 Public utility - - - - - - - - 15 - 15 - - - - - - - 283.16 0.72 6018.58 14.26 145 1.5 6163.58 16.48 474.9 1.21 228.02 0.58 182.83 0.47 373.43 0.95 5235.97 13.39 2015.19 5.15 42.26 0.11 Settlements & infrastructures 7096.7215 18.2 8552.6 21.86 13 Wetland 14 Water body 15 Buffer - - 435.58 1.11 4806.9186 12.3 4821.43 12.33 385.925 1 388.65 0.99 Wetlands & buffers 5192.8436 13.3 5645.66 14.43 39083.4304 100 38833.7 100 Table 37: Rubavu District Land Use Balance Sheet 2022-2050 in Rubavu District It is planned to maintain a dominating agriculture land, for the district is recommended to be an agriculture hub which will be supported by diversifying land use and possibly improving agricultural efficiency. Moreover, there will be a slight increase in forest and environmental conservation land, for the purpose of developing disaster resilient district. Furthermore, there will be a significant increase settlement and infrastructure areas. This Reflects urban expansion and development to accommodate a growing population in the district. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 151 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025174 5. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES The implementation of Rubavu DLUP will be done in different phases through the elaboration of Detailed Physical Plans for the areas to be developed, e.g. residential zones. Land use planning and zoning regulations will play a vital role in the implementation of the DLUP. Frequent evaluations and monitoring will be conducted to assess whether implementation is in compliance with the NLUDMP 2020-2050. Rubavu DLUP defines sectorial land uses to promote optimal land use allocation by 2050, and establishes policy orientations to guide each sector in the district. These include: 1. An established urban settlement hierarchy of (a) Rubavu City as a Secondary City and the main urban area in the district, and (b) rurban settlements (emerging centers). The rurban centers play a key role in increasing the urban population in the district linked to commercial development. Mitigating urban sprawl by agglomeration and consolidation of settlements will be a crucial task going forward. Moreover, the consolidation of settlements and public facilities to reduce the cost and length of roads needed. 2. Housing developments promoting informal settlement upgrading, affordable housing and densification principles within existing cities and centers should be applied prior to green field developments. 3. Rural settlements with restructured imidugudu policy/systems allowing for higher densities should be promoted (e.g. “4 in 1”, “8 in 1” and “12 in 1”), to progressively reduce the average plot size of rural residences from 600 m2 to 300 m2. In rural residential zone R1B, plot sizes less than 300m2 are prescribed. 4. Land consolidation will continue to be promoted to gradually eliminate scattered homestead. The transformation of the rural settlement system will be key to unlocking the development of commercial agriculture and ensuring food security in Rubavu District. 5. 6. Small-scale mining will progressively be transformed into a regional mineral processing hub. Public services and utilities will be supplied to consolidated settlements, limiting the provision of utilities to sprawled settlements. In combination with implementation of the proposed settlement structure, access to services and utilities will improve. 7. Tourism and conservation are key potential sources of income in Rubavu District. The DLUP promotes densification principles to better utilize land, thus mitigating fragmentation of developable land. 8. Promoting environmental protection and managing sustainable exploitation of natural Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 152 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025175 resources by preservation of natural forests, reforestation, and afforestation on steep slopes (above 55%) in combination with cultivation of cash crops like coffee, protection of water bodies and wetlands, and conditional use of unprotected wetlands. 5.1 Planning and Implementation Framework The implementation of Rubavu DLUP will be commissioned and monitored by NLA and RHA. The authorities have the following main missions: 5.1.1 NLA 1° To implement national policies, laws, strategies, regulations and Government resolutions related to the management and use of land; 2° To provide advice to the Government, monitor and coordinate the implementation of strategies related to the management and use of land; 3° To promote activities relating to investment and value addition in the activities related to the use and exploitation of land resources in Rwanda; 4° To supervise all land-related matters and represent the State for supervision and monitoring of land management and use; 5° To prepare, disseminate and publish various maps and master plans relating to land management using the most appropriate scales; 6° To establish and update basic topographic maps and thematic maps; 7° To set up principles and guidelines related to use of land; 8° To organize, coordinate and monitor collection use and dissemination of geo information in the country under the National Spatial data Infrastructure Framework; 9° To issue technical instructions related to land management and use to district land bureaux and follow up their implementation; 10° To resolve conflicts relating to land use and management which were not resolved at the District or City of Kigali levels; 11° To establish cooperation and collaboration with other regional and international institutions with an aim of harmonizing the performance and relations on matters relating to management of land. Strengthening the legal and institutional framework is necessary to support the effective implementation of NLUDMP 2020-2050. The land law and its implementation orders would be able to be a sole legal tool to govern the land administration and use in Rwanda. All other conflicting laws and policies should be appealed. The institutional reform should strengthen the institution in charge of land management to be able to do oversight for land use planning and management Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 153 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025176 5.1.2 RHA RHA, is the custodian of “Housing Development” in Rwanda, with the aim of organizing urban development and the construction industries. The Authority will ensure proper implementation of housing permitting in line with approved Zoning regulations integrated within Rubavu DLUP. The overall mission is advised on mechanisms to implement the national housing and construction policy through coordination, conception, development, monitoring and evaluation of actions and programs set out in its mission in line with the approved DLUP for Rubavu District. According to the Law, which determines its responsibilities, organization and functioning, the agency is responsible for housing, planning & development, construction & legislation, and government Assets. Particular tasks in the context of land use and housing development are to: – Advise the Government on all mechanisms that may be used to improve urban spontaneous settlements; – Promote the program for the provision of housing to individuals or assist them in building their own homes; – – Collaborate with banking and financial institutions to help Rwandans to build their own homes; Promote the overall development of the housing sector while targeting all stakeholders. RHA is an implementing agency under the Ministry of Infrastructure mandated to implement policies and strategies related to human settlement planning and development, building construction and management of public buildings. 5.1.3 Rubavu District: Implementing Agency Rubavu District is the “Implementer” of this DLUP according to the recommendations of the NLUDMP 2020-2050 and the Decentralization Policy in Rwanda. Other implementation stakeholders will be involved in the development and investments of particular projects under the coordination of Rubavu District leadership. The NLUDMP 2020-2050 proposes to technically and financially upgrade and strengthen the local institution (Rubavu District Staff to be capacitated). NLA will become the high-level authority responsible for tracking monitoring and compliance, controlling all land-use planning at district scale and its spatial implications in urbanization and settlements, infrastructure, energy, minerals, oil and gas, transport, education, healthcare, agriculture, industry, trade, tourism, housing, etc. Additionally, Rubavu District works closely with MINECOFIN and Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA) to secure central funding for implementation of public projects. . Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 154 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025177 5.2 Legal and Institutional Framework One of the fundamental aspects of achieving the goals as set out in Rubavu DLUP for a specific area is the implementation of such a plan by the established implementation Agency. The implementation of Rubavu DLUP, which is the official document (that contains public policy, programs and projects for Rubavu District), is a major determinant of urban and rural development and Rubavu District has a major role to play. Stakeholders are the key players in the implementation of DLUPs. The table below shows the targeted stakeholders and the associated roles and responsibilities. No Actors & Intervention sector Responsibilities Stakeholders 1. Rubavu District All interventions - Develop working mechanism that brings all actors on board sectors - Strengthen capacity building of staff, hold workshops and regular meetings with all district partners to share best practices - Facilitate the provision of extension services - Mobilize necessary resources for the implementation of the district priorities. - Initiate, Coordinate, Monitor and Evaluate the Implementation Phases 2. MINALOC All interventions - Ensure that all the guidelines and directives from the central government are fully sectors disseminated to the district - Proper use of the public resources - Supporting stakeholder coordination in their activities at district level Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 155 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025178 3. MINECOFIN Public Financial - Leads the resource mobilization, allocation process and approve new innovative financing Management mechanisms - Will assist to link the district strategic outcomes with the NST1 and higher-level plans. - Coordinate the transfer of earmarked funds 4. MININFRA - Transport - Ensure the sustainable development of infrastructure - Urbanization - Overseeing maintenance and development of infrastructure - Energy MININFRA is the national level Ministry responsible for policy development and -Water and Sanitation supervision of the urban planning, housing, meteorology and major infrastructure areas including transport, energy, water and sanitation. In addition to Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA); Road Maintenance Fund (RMF), Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA), Rwanda Energy Group (REG), Water and Sanitation Corporation Ltd (WASAC), Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) and Rwanda Maintenance Fund (RMF) are the agencies and companies under MININFRA responsible for major physical infrastructure. 5. MINEDUC - Education - Developing and managing Education Monitoring and Evaluation systems - Promoting information and technologies in the area of education - Promoting information and communication technology as a tool for learning and teaching; - Overseeing the programs of school construction and equipment - Overseeing formal education and continuing training of teaching staff 6. MINISANTE - Health - Financial accessibility of health services - Strengthening national referral hospitals, treatment & research centres - Institutional capacity building Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 156 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025179 - Human Resources Development 7. MINAGRI - Agriculture - Organization, mobilization and capacity-building for producers and their organizations - Promoting the gender approach and reducing vulnerability among disadvantaged groups - Diversification and intensification of plant, animal and fish production 8. MoE/ REMA - Environment and - Strengthening climate resilience of communities Natural resources - Water Resources Management - Monitor and assess development programs to ensure compliance with the laws on environment during their preparation and implementation; - Advice and technical support to individuals or entities engaged in natural resources management and environmental conservation - Monitor and supervise impact assessment 9 MINICOM - Private sector - Support private sector growth and job creation with a focus on SMEs development and - Build an effective human resource base and institutional capacity for delivery. employment 10 MINISPOC Sports and Culture - Ensure that sports and culture policies and strategies are disseminated and appropriately implemented to attain the intended results - Supervise the functioning and management of affiliated institutions and agencies of the ministry for efficiency and effectiveness. - Promote research and development of cultural and sport activities Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 157 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025180 11 NLA All Sectors - Overall Monitoring and Evaluation of Rubavu DLUP Implementation Phases - Capacity Building of all implementation Actors at all levels of Governance - Involve public and private investors and developers for Rubavu DLUP Implementation 12 LODA - Private Sector - Local Economic & Community Development Development & - Capacity building of local administrative entities Youth Employment - Monitoring and Evaluating the implementation process of development programs - Social protection Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA) within MINALOC is also - Urbanization and responsible for financing the development activities of the Districts, and is acting as the rural settlements intermediary between local government and donors, as well as providing support in - Transport strengthening the capacity of local governments. 13 RHA -Housing - Monitoring and Inspection of Housing Permitting - Public Building - Effective Management of Public Buildings (Construction, Repair and Maintenance) 14 RAB - Agriculture - Practice modern methods in crop and animal production, research, agricultural extension, education and training of farmers in new technologies. 15. NAEB Agriculture - Facilitate the growth of business to diversify agriculture and livestock commodity export revenues. 16. Rwanda - Agriculture - Promoting the cooperative organizations sector Cooperative - Financial Sector - Promoting business entrepreneurship in the cooperative organizations sector agency (RCA) Development - Assisting cooperative organizations in their capacity building through training and seminars of its members and managers Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 158 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025181 -Empowerment of - Supervising implementation of laws and instructions governing cooperatives Youth, Women and People with Disabilities 17. BDF / BRD Financial sector - Promoting SME development through the provision of financial services Development - Accelerate export development, Catalyse agricultural financing; - Promote affordable housing, Manage and facilitate financing for education loans; and - Increase investments in energy development 18. REG Energy - Responsible for maintaining and improving power plants, transmission and distribution networks, as well as delivery of electrical energy to consumers at a sustainable fee - Community companies support in small micro hydro power plants 19. WASAC & RWB Water Resources To increase the water resources management and production, distribution, and performance Management, improvement aimed at provision of quality water and sanitation services production, distribution and Sanitation 20. Development - Urbanization and - Provision of basic infrastructure Partners (World Rural settlement - Technical assistance to support sustainable urban management and capacities at Bank, Un- - Upgrading of Secondary Cities District level and facilitation of Local Economic Development Informal Settlement - Financing of Projects for improvement of Living Conditions of Rubavu Population Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 159 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025182 Habitat, AFD, - Resettlement of etc.) People living in High Risk Zones 21 RALGA Capacity Building Support the decentralization process and to support transparent and accountable local and Social government. Support the entire process of implementation of the Rubavu DLUP using an Inclusiveness approach that ensures community participation and social inclusiveness. RALGA is Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities 22 Private Sector Private Investments Implementation of Rubavu DLUP in line with proposed strategic actions aligned to the Vision 2035 and 2050, the NLUDMP and other policies 23 Local Planning, Budgeting Ensure the planning and budgeting process towards achieving the identified potentialities Government and Monitoring of for investments to implement the Rubavu DLUP using Own Revenue and Earmarked Implementation Transfers. Phases Ensure proper monitoring and evaluation with technical and financial support for the effective implementation of the DLUP 24 Local Community/ Public Ensure active participation during all phases of planning and budgeting to implement Communities Participation Rubavu DLUP using public awareness campaigns, consultations and group discussions. (Participation Ownership of the Sites and Services Project (Physical Plans & Land Readjustment Plans) Approaches) for easy and integrated inclusive implementation of the DLUP in Rubavu District using community works and local economic opportunities Table 38: Rubavu District Implementation key actors and their responsibilities (DDS 2018-2024) Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 160 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025183 5.3 Rubavu Urban Master Plan and DLUP Implementation Plan 5.3.1 Rubavu DLUP Spatial Phasing Plan by Horizon of the Year 2035 The Implementation Phasing of Rubavu DLUP is part of all local and land use plan provisions and elaborated based on the local context. The leading spatial principle in phasing is compared to the roofing of this DLUP, which simply prevents random and remote locations of development. The phasing plan for Rubavu District Land Use Plan intends to provide flexibility to the implementing Agents and Stakeholders to prioritize investment projects for local economic development in Rubavu District for efficient and adequate use of implementation resources and funds to finance the selected priority projects. This Phasing Plan provides the District, communities, and donors/financiers with rationale to prioritize infrastructure and associated urban and rural services to incrementally develop in a phased manner. Phasing plans have been elaborated in Rubavu Secondary City and Rurbans of Kabumba where the 3 phases have been proposed to implement Rubavu District Land Use Master Plan; Phase One: 2023 – 2029: Phase one considered the areas, which already contain existing built up and basic infrastructures distributed. The areas of Rubavu Secondary City and Kabumba Rurban Center are already settled and contain all major basic infrastructures. The district will continue the issuance of building construction permits and rehabilitation permits in order to achieve required proposed densities. These areas will be priority during additional district infrastructures development and relevant stakeholders’ investments. The Physical Plans are available and published for Residential and Mixed Uses in line with Rubavu DLUP for these particular areas. The rural areas serviced with basic facilities in rural settlement sites are considered during the implementation of this DLUP in its Phase One. Phase two: 2030 – 2034 Phase two includes areas of urban residential zones with high densities (R3). These areas don’t have basic services and infrastructures today. Issuance of new building construction permits is prohibited in phase two, except big investment cases, where the investors will comfortably distribute all basic infrastructures (Roads, water, electricity, etc.), without a government or public investments. District will provide construction permits in phase 2, after elaboration of detailed physical plans and distribution of all basic infrastructures (Roads, Water, Electricity, IT, drainage channels, etc.). Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 161 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025184 Phase three: 2035 – 2040 This phase covers urban expansion zones and peripherals, suitable for urban development and rural areas today used for agriculture and livestock. Urban and Rural Expansion Areas will be considered during the implementation of this DLUP in its last phase (Phase 3). These areas don’t have basic services and infrastructures today. Issuance of new building construction permits is prohibited in phase three, except big investment cases, where the investors will comfortably distribute all basic infrastructures (Roads, water, electricity, etc.), without a government or public investments. These areas will be protected allowing transitional land uses like agriculture or forestry/agroforestry plantations. This phase will be also time to pinpoint opportunities for improvement derived from feedback during the implementation of the DLUP process and to evaluate emerging country development , which may necessitate revisions and updates to the DLUP. Phase Four: 2040 – 2050 Phases Four correspond eventually to the revision of land use plans at national and District levels. This phase should consider needs of urban expansion for areas that today are used for agriculture and livestock Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 162 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025185 5.3.2 PROPOSED PROJECTS' IMPLEMENTATION PLAN THEMATIC DEVELOPMENT AREA KEY ACTIONS Elaboration of Rubavu Industrial Park zoning plan Implementation of Rubavu Industrial Park zoning plan Upgrading of Umuganda stadium to meet the international standards Establishment of Smart Infrastructure for Sustainable Economic Development Provide integrated sports facilities along with commercial and affordable housing. Construction of Rubavu arena to provided sports and entertainment facilities Development of a landmark office and retail cluster in the heart of CBD. Development of Market one-way street with 3.0-meter Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) Lane to encourage the usage of NMT in Rubavu's City Area RESPONSIBLE INSTITUTIONS MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, MINISPORTS, RHA, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, MINISPORTS, RHA, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, MINISPORTS, RHA, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF, MINICOM, RTDA, PSF, DISTRICT 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 5 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 Phase I 2023-2029 Phase II 2030-2034 Phase III 2035-2039 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 163 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025186 Road ADPR-Petite Barriere and Road RRA Petite Barriere One-Way Street with 3.0- meter non-Motorized Transport (NMT) Lane MINICOM, RTDA, PSF, DISTRICT Converting Rujende-BK - Boungerie Road into one way and commercial street MINICOM, RTDA, PSF, DISTRICT Construction of warehouses and trade logistics for cross border trade to help domestic traders and for re-export Construction of Mahoko modern market Construction of Rubavu vegetables modern market Development of Buhuru Sub City Centre to implement a mixed-use, mixed-income development in Buhuru. Implementation of Muhira, Buhuru, Buhaza, Kabarora, Ruranga and Rubona land readjustment projects MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF MINICOM, DISTRICT, PSF DISTRICT, RHA DISTRICT, MINALOC, RHA, NLA Redevelop informal settlements in Rubavu MINICOM, Implementation of plot servicing for Kabumba Rurban as the secondary node in the district Implementation of Kabumba Rurban as the secondary node in the district with MINISPORTS, RHA, DISTRICT, PSF RHA, NLA, RTDA, DISTRICT, PSF RHA, NLA, RTDA, DISTRICT, PSF Promoting Sustainable Urban Growth through neighborhood plan and Inclusive Housing Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 164 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025187 industrial, commercial and housing development Implementation of Nyakiriba New Community: mixed-use, development which provides affordable housing solutions Upgrading of Mahoko, Byahi, Umuganda, Gisa-Rwasa, and Rugeroro informal settlements zones. Construction of low-cost housing to meet the growing demand for affordable housing and construction of social housing for the households who cannot afford to own or rent a house. DISTRICT, RHA DISTRICT, RHA DISTRICT, RHA Implementation of Serana Hotel-Gorilla Hotel Car Free Zone Strengthening Green, Smart and Climate Resilient Urbanization Rehabilitation of ecological hotpots in the district and develop accessible green spaces Relocation properties with 60 m wide width within fissure line Relocation of households in identified high risk zone (flood, landslide earthquakes, etc.) DISTRICT, GGGI, NLA, RWB, REMA, MININFRA, DISTRICT, GGGI, NLA, REMA. DISTRICT, RHA, MINEMA, MINALOC, MININFRA, MoE DISTRICT, RHA, MINEMA, MINALOC, MININFRA, MoE Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 165 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025188 Implementation of Rubavu proposed green building development Implement the established resilient initiatives for disaster prone area (special regulation on Sebeya, fissure line, etc.) Implement proposed Rubavu green mobility strategies Elaboration of physical plans for rural settlement sites Plot servicing and terracing to facilitate the implementation of rural settlement sites Construction of IDP model villages Rural residential land readjustment project initiation for sustainability Implement proposed rural settlement infrastructure plan Construction of Nyakabungo, a New Transport Hub, seamlessly linked to various bus services & destinations. Construction of Tarmac Roads linking mining sites to the main roads. Construction of feeder and tarmac roads linking rural and urban areas to allow access to markets for farmers. -Construction of Mahoro - Rugeroro bypass -Construction of Rugerero - Buhuru bypass -Construction of Gisa Brasserie-port bypass DISTRICT, RHA, GGGI DISTRICT, RHA, MINEMA, MINALOC, MININFRA, MoE DISTRICT, RHA, RURA, RTDA, MININFRA, MoE DISTRICT, RHA, NLA DISTRICT, RHA, NLA DISTRICT, RHA, DISTRICT, RHA, NLA DISTRICT, RHA, LODA, MINALOC, MININFRA DISTRICT, MININFRA, RTDA, PSF DISTRICT, MININFRA, RTDA DISTRICT, MININFRA, RTDA DISTRICT, MININFRA, RTDA, LODA Smart Rural Settlement Development Improving Transportation Infrastructures to Facilitate, Mobility, Connectivity and Economic Development Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 166 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025189 -Construction of Gereza- Industrial zone road -Construction of cross border road (rubavu - cyanzarwe, Busasamana Bugeshi Mudende Kanzenze) -Construction Road Bazirete-Nyungwe -Construction Road Mahoko- Nkomane Construction of talents detection centers Construction and running of Early Childhood Development Centers in Rubavu Construction of Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) to receive and treat the City Core's sewer flow generated for the management of drainage and sewerage. Upgrade existing Water Treatment Plant to increase capacity of existing Gihira Water Treatment Plant- Phase 1 by 21.9ML/day. Construction of an engineered Rubavu landfill to serve as a disposal site for waste generated in urban/high-density areas, construct 1.1ha landfill. Application of agricultural technologies in areas designated for consolidated agricultural land (Bugeshi, Busasamana, Mudende, etc.) Relocation of households within agriculture land MINISPOC, PSF, MINEDUC, DISTRICT DISTRICT, MIGEPROF, MINALOC, MINEDUC, MINICOM DISTRICT, MININFRA, WASAC DISTRICT, MININFRA, WASAC DISTRICT, MININFRA, WASAC DISTRICT, MINAGRI, RAB DISTRICT, MINAGRI, RHA. Strengthen Infrastructure, Public Services and Utilities Integrated Land Management for Sustainable Agriculture and Livestock Development Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 167 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025190 Improving Fodder Production and Management in the district specifically in the livestock areas near Gishwati buffer zones Upgrading of the Nkamira milk processing center as well as establishment of Collection systems for milk value addition in the district Establishment of the improved Veterinary Laboratories in the districtt Construction of animal feed production units for livestock at district level Diary processing plants to diversify dairy products including cheese, yogurt, butter, milk, Installing fish processing, maize, potatoes, and vegetables processing plants. Forestry Sustainable land use through enhancing conservation of natural resources and their efficient use. Wetlands and Water Bodies To conserve the Gishwati Forest and its flora and fauna with development of nature trails and cycling tracks. Afforestation of open spaces Develop Sebeya flooding area into Sebaye River DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM DISTRICT, RAB, MINAGRI, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RFA, REMA, MoE DISTRICT, RFA, REMA, MoE DISTRICT, NLA, RWB, RHA, REMA, MoE Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 168 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025191 Wetland Park for efficient flooding management allowing passive recreation. Implementation of Sebaya flooding control measures Water bodies and their buffer conservation. Modernize mining techniques and expand mineral value by additional exports. Rehabilitate the abandoned Mining. Mining Waste Management Constructing central sewage system and water treatment plant. Constructing drainage system along Sebeya. Treat wastewater from industries Constructing drainage system along Sebeya. Stormwater management DISTRICT, NLA, REMA, MoE DISTRICT, NLA, REMA, MoE DISTRICT, RMB DISTRICT, RWB, REMA DISTRICT, MINICOM, WASAC DISTRICT, RWB, RHA, NLA, RFA Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 169 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025192 Promoting Leisure and Recreational Experience through Eco- tourism and Conservation Relocation properties located with 50 meters buffer along Sebeya river Conducting a full Stormwater management Plan Feasibility study on the development of the identified potential touristic sites. Development of a Hot Spring Eco Resort with traditional cultural experience and sustainable eco living. Development of the beach for tourism and improving the attractiveness of tourist sights [i.e., Mountain Rubavu, Springs]. The hillside redevelopment project aims to promote good accessibility between the city and the mountain while creating an inclusive hillside community with pocket parks and organized car parks (Development of Retail, Residential spaces, Pocket parks, Plazas and the Mount Rubavu trail). To rejuvenate the Rubavu waterfront by adding active and vibrant uses. Construction off 5 Star Hotel Hot SpringHotspring DISTRICT, RWB, RHA, NLA, RFA DISTRICT, RDB DISTRICT, RDB DISTRICT, RDB DISTRICT, RDB, MINICOM, PSF DISTRICT, RDB, PSF DISTRICT, RDB, PSF Table 39: Implementation Plan Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 170 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025193 5.3.3 Rubavu Capital & Catalytic Improvement Projects According to the conducted consultation and with the prioritization reflected within the District Development Strategy (DDS), the Priority Projects for rolling annual capital investment plan (CIP) include in the following table: AREAS PROJECTS Memorable Cross Border 1. Market Street Landmark Project 2. Market Street One-way Project 3. Warehouse and Hotel Project Link to the Mountain 4. CBD Office Cluster Project 5. Rubavu High Street Project 6. Hillside Redevelopment Project Pedestrian Friendly CBD 7. Mixed Use Redevelopment Project 8. CBD Landmark Project New Transport Hub 9. New Transport Hub Project Campus Like Civic Area 10. Gisenyi Hospital Redevelopment Project 11. Gisenyi Catholic Parish Pedestrian Linkage Project Vibrant Waterfront Destinations 12. Waterfront Commercial Development Project 13. Coastal Park Project Tourism Development 14. Water sports 15. Hotel Industry Extension 16.Construction of Rubavu ARENA Industrial Development 176. Gas Methane extraction Table 40: Capital Investment Projects in Rubavu District (2022-2035) However, the following projects are immediately to be implemented in the first phase of the DLUP for Rubavu District include: 1. 2. 3. Gisenyi Modern Market Gisenyi Public Car Parking and Gisenyi Public Beach Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 171 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025194 Figure 26: Design for Gisenyi Modern Market Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 172 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025195 Figure 27: Designs for Gisenyi Modern Car Park Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 173 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025196 5.3.4 Land Readjustment & Detailed Physical Plans Land Readjustment and Detailed Physical Plans of existing plots are recommended during implementation of Rubavu District Land Use Plan to assure rational development and effective land uses. Where the plots are of different quality or value, area or value adjustments are made. The underlying principle is that every owner must be compensated for their land with the land of equivalent value. The readjustment of the land transforms the irregularly shaped plots into regular and standard shape land with access to infrastructures such as roads, electricity, water, schools, hospitals and other services, which contributes to the value of the land in any specific area. Statutory phasing in each land- use plan will be compulsory. The communities who are the landowners must be willing to participate in all phases from beginning to end including elaboration of site physical plans, data collection and all mapping and site demarcations exercises until the assignment is completed and approved, being provided by in-depth advice of planners and appraisal experts. A land readjustment map and appraisal documents must be approved together with the concerned detailed local plan as one unit. Alternatively, simplified voluntary land exchange processes shall be introduced. A readjustment is an essential tool for land consolidation and orderly development. The Rubavu District communities should have ownership in all phases and must contribute as well as ensuring compliance during development. Any conflicts and disputes that may occur in the process should be resolved between land owners, the site committee established, local Village Chiefs and Cell Leaders. There must be established guidelines for local physical plan development procedures and implementation, roles and responsibilities for local communities, the site committee, local authorities and the consultants or experts developing the neighbourhood-planning site. Therefore, the community approach is part of the Rubavu District Land Use Plan for its successful implementation. 5.3.5 Minimizing earthquake and volcanic eruption damages Considering the fact that some of Rubavu Areas, registered the intensity of an earthquake shaking being directly related to the type of soil layers supporting a building. The building structures built on solid rock and firm soil frequently perform far better than the buildings on soft ground. Based on the national contingency plan for earthquake-prone areas of Rwanda, building structures should be well-designed and reinforced in order to make them more resistant to seismic activity, ground motion, soil failure due to earthquakes. Earthquake Early-Warning systems should be Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 174 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025197 established to provide a warning message prior to ground shaking in order to reduce the earthquake damage, costs and casualties. The following photos were taken after the occurred earthquakes in Rubavu District manly in the core urban center of the Secondary City Figure 28: Earthquake Effects in Rubavu City Center The following factors that influence the damage to buildings and other built structures should be taken into consideration: Building configuration: A building shaped like a box, rectangular both in plan and elevation, ✔ is inherently stronger than one L shaped or U-shaped, such as a building with wings. An irregularly shaped building will twist as it shakes, increasing the damage. Opening size: Openings in walls of a building tend to weaken the walls, and the fewer the ✔ openings the less the damage suffered during an earthquake. If large openings are needed in the building, special provisions should be made to ensure structural integrity. Stiffness distribution: Horizontal stiffness of a building up its height should be uniform. ✔ Changes in the structural system of a building from one floor to the next one will increase the potential for damage, and should be avoided. Columns or shear walls should run continuously from foundation to the roof, without interruptions or changes in material. Ductility: Ductility is the ability of the building to bend, sway, and deform by large amounts ✔ without collapse. The opposite condition is brittleness, arising from the use of materials that are inherently brittle and from the wrong design of structures using otherwise ductile materials. Brittle materials break under overload; some examples are adobe, brick and concrete blocks. It is not surprising that most damages during past earthquakes in Rubavu City were mostly observed to unreinforced masonry structures constructed of brittle materials, poorly tied together. The addition of steel reinforcement can add ductility to brittle materials. Concrete, for example, can be made ductile by proper use of reinforcing steel and closely spaced steel ties, e.g. hoops in columns and stirrups in beams. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 175 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025198 Strength of buildings: Structures of buildings should have adequate strength to resist ✔ earthquake shaking and particularly the “rocking” effect. ”Rocking” can occur in rigid normal houses. Therefore, all building components, i.e. foundations, columns, beams, walls, roof trusses, roofing, etc. must be tied to each other, so that when shaken by earthquakes, each building will act as one integral unit. Foundations: Buildings which are structurally strong against earthquakes sometimes fail due ✔ to inadequate foundation design. Tilting, cracking and failure of superstructures may result from soil liquefaction and differential settlements of footings. Certain types of foundations are more susceptible to damage than others. For example, isolated footings of columns are likely to be subjected to differential settlement particularly where the supporting ground consists of different or soft types of soil. Mixed types of foundations such as piles and footings within the same building may also lead to damage due to differential settlement. Very shallow foundations deteriorate because of weathering, and when exposed to freezing and thawing in cold climate regions. Construction quality: In many instances the failure of buildings in an earthquake has been ✔ attributed to poor quality of construction, substandard materials, poor workmanship, e.g., inadequate skill in bonding, absence of “through stones” or bonding units, and improper and inadequate construction. Since the proposed developments are located in seismic zones, an earthquake may happen and damage is likely. However, through strategic and careful design and careful consideration of aforementioned factors, the damage associated with an earthquake hazard risk can be reduced substantially. Things that must be prioritized when building an earthquake-resistant structure on Rubavu Public Beach and its surroundings may include for example: Structural steel: It is combined in multiple shapes to allow the steel to bend without breaking. ✔ Wood: It is a lightweight material that offers strong resistance to seismic activity thanks to a ✔ favorable weight-to-strength ratio. ✔ ✔ 5.4 Bamboo: It can be shaped in multiple ways and also offers strong resistance to shaking. Memory alloys: are designed to endure heavy damage and revert to their original shape Principles Guiding the Zoning Requirements in cities / urban area • Integrated Development and Urban Resilience The integrated approach to urban development promotes appropriate growth of Cities, ensures sustainable mobility, more cohesive communities, and a better environment. By looking at the City in a holistic fashion, it strengthens the urban resilience, known as “the capacity of urban systems, Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 176 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025199 communities, individuals, organizations, and businesses to recover, maintain their function and thrive in the aftermath of a shock or a stress, regardless of its impact, frequency or magnitude”. These Zoning Regulations enhance this approach and help to build the resilience, providing adequate tools and measures to guide the growth of the City as an urban system, where all components - infrastructural, institutional, economic, and social are taken into consideration. • Inclusivity and Community Involvement in the Planning Inclusivity and equity in the planning and development process help create more sustainable cities with people getting the right to fully participate in every aspect of social, economic, political, and cultural life and voice their concerns and aspirations to create thriving neighborhoods and communities. All developments shall consider the needs and aspirations of all groups, including vulnerable groups and people of all abilities, in the design and implementation process. A participatory and bottom-up approach shall be followed involving and engaging the community in the design, development, and monitoring process. • Incrementality and Flexibility The principle of incrementality is adopted in these Zoning Regulations to allow communities, investors, and developers to develop according to their current financial capacities. The objective is to create a flexible environment where all developments happen in an organic manner, without creating financial overexposure and hence hindering the affordability of the development. At the same time, the incremental approach is designed in such a way that future addition to the development would help achieve the desired density for the specific zone in future years. Incremental development also allows developers to better adapt to current and future market conditions, thus reducing investment risk and facilitating access to the market to a larger segment of the population. Incremental development shall be an opportunity to limit ongoing informal development processes and ensure efficient provision of infrastructure and service delivery and rational land use. • Mixed Land Use The zoning regulations allow and encourage Integrated and mixed-use development within all zones to create higher density, compact and vibrant places for people from all groups and neighborhoods. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 177 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025200 Neighborhoods shall showcase a blend of residential, commercial, cultural, public facilities, and micro-enterprises that are accessible and well connected to the transit system. This will enhance inclusivity, bring work closer to homes and reduce disparity and social segregation between different groups. • Pedestrian First “Cities around the world are recognizing how essential walkability is for the access and health of their citizens, and the economic growth of their cities. All planners, designers and developers shall ensure walkable and integrated neighborhoods that link residences to the public facilities, commercial and recreational areas. The DLUP provides for the City to expand its Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) network to cover the entire City for complete, continuous, and safe walkway and cycleway networks that provide clear protection from motor vehicles and are accessible to people of all groups. Universal designs shall be adopted by removing all physical barriers and providing a safe route for smooth mobility and easy access. • Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Transit-oriented development (TOD) presents as the best approach for Cities of Rwanda to continue keeping the private vehicle ownership on the low, and to avoid unsustainable, car-dependent, and sprawling settlement. TOD is necessary for inclusivity, equity, and long-term sustainability of the cities. The integrated and transit-oriented development brings people closer to activities, work, home, and public space, providing inclusive access for all, to Citywide opportunities and resources at the lowest financial and environmental cost, and with the highest resilience to climate change and other disasters. The City provide high-quality, safe, and reliable mass transit system for a sustainable, and equitable development. Mixed-use, integrated, and higher density developments that are well connected with easy walking and cycling connection, and in proximity to reliable transit service to the rest of the City are at the base of this master planning effort. • Sustainable Design All developments shall be designed and developed with due regards for the environment, by incorporating environmentally friendly and sustainable design practices in both design and construction of the buildings. It shall be of paramount importance to encourage environmentally responsible buildings that are appropriate for the existing urban fabric. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 178 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025201 Subject to review and evaluation of developments in certain zones, and in line with GBMC, the District One Stop Center may, at its discretion, grant increases in additional floor area, building height or building coverage for developments that adopt sustainable design technologies or techniques or provide additional benefit to the neighboring communities such as public spaces or recreational areas. 5.5 Rubavu DLUP Monitoring and Evaluation The proposed compliance between the different planning levels is a must in order to avoid any mistakes made in the many plans, policies and projects before caused by lack of compliance. The purpose of this part is to set up administrative and planning tools, in which planning instructions transfer from central level to local level. A Continuous Compliance Planning (CCP) principle was adopted to ensure the fulfillment of the chain of planning. Under this principle of CCP, the following measures and procedures are essential in order to achieve the desired compliance in planning process; Providing a non-objection to any land use plan and project by NLA in charge of Land Use Management through the back up coordination force from MINECOFIN will be instrumental in resolving coordination and compliance issues. NLUDMP dominance: Ensuring that the projects and activities of all Ministries & Authorities comply with this plan. The national development planning and budgeting process (MINECOFIN) should ensure that sector priorities and investments comply with the NLUDMP. In other words, there must be a balance between economic planning and spatial planning. Rubavu DLUP implementation phases for midterm (2035): The areas of the development phases will be adjacent to each other to create a paving system for the efficient use of lands. The long-term phases 2035-2050 will be protected for the next 27 years. Consolidation principles in land use planning will be directed towards and applied to all levels and all sectors of land-use planning. Regular updating of spatial data and base maps through large-scale mapping will greatly support the development of master plans and monitoring of land use. To improve the adequate performance of Building Permitting Management Information system (BPMIS) and its dissemination in all districts to serve the urban and rural construction and development permitting countrywide. Strong community outreach program and mind-set change on land use planning in Rwanda will be organized continuously in Rubavu District in order for community public awareness and ownership. Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 179 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025202 REFERENCES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. UN, The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are (SDGs), 2015 Republic of Rwanda, Rwanda's Vision 2050 (2020, MINECOFIN) Republic of Rwanda, National Strategy for Transformation (NST1): 2017-2024, MINECOFIN Republic of Rwanda, National Housing Policy (2015), MININFRA Republic of Rwanda, National Land Policy, 2019, MoE Republic of Rwanda, National Urbanization Policy, 2015, MININFRA Republic of Rwanda, National Investment Policy, RDB Republic of Rwanda, National Human Settlement Policy, MININFRA Republic of Rwanda, National Land Use Development Master Plan (NLUDMP) 2020-2050 (2020, MoE) 10. Republic of Rwanda, Green Growth and Climate Resilient Strategy, 2011, REMA 11. Republic of Rwanda, Rwanda National Land Use Planning Guidelines (NLUPG) (2017, Rwanda Land Management and Use Authority) 12. Republic of Rwanda, Rwanda Urban Planning Code (UPC) (2015), RHA 13. Republic of Rwanda, Urbanization and Rural Settlements Sector Strategic Plan 2018-2024 (2018, MININFRA) 14. Republic of Rwanda, Environmental Impact Assessment Guidelines, REMA 2007 15. Republic of Rwanda, Organic law N° 08/2005 of 14/07/2005 Determining the use and management of Land in Rwanda. 16. Republic of Rwanda, 2018. Law N°48/2018 of 13/08/2018 on Environment, 2018. 17. Republic of Rwanda, General Census and National Population Projection, 2012 National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR). 18. Republic of Rwanda, Integrated Household Living Conditions Survey, EICV 5, Thematic Report, Environmental and natural resources, March, 2020, NISR 19. Republic of Rwanda, Rwanda Building Code, 2015, RHA. 20. Republic of Rwanda, The National Environmental Policy of the Republic of Rwanda, MoE. 21. Republic of Rwanda, The Law N° 27/2021 of 10/06/2021 governing land, 2021, MoE. 22. Republic of Rwanda, The Law N°10/2012 of 02/05/2012 governing urban planning and building in Rwanda, 2012, MININFRA. 23. Republic of Rwanda, The Law N°20/2011 of 21/06/2011 governing human habitation, 2011, MININFRA 24. Rubavu District Development Plan (DDS), 2018-2024 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 180 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025203 25. Rubavu District Potentialities Report, 2017 26. Rubavu District, Master Plan for Urban Development, 2020 27. Rubavu District, Local Economic Development (LED) Strategy 2017-2024 Rubavu District Land Use Plan 2023-2050 181 Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025204 w’Iteka Bibonywe kugira ngo bishyirwe ku mugereka no 010/25/10/TC ryo ku wa 28/07/2025 rishyiraho mbonera igishushanyo cy’imikoreshereze n’imitunganyirize by’ubutaka cy’Akarere ka Rubavu rya Minisitiri Seen to be annexed to Ministerial Order no 010/25/10/TC of 28/07/2025 establishing land use and development master plan of Rubavu District Vu pour être annexé à l’Arrêté Ministériel no 010/25/10/TC du 28/07/2025 établissant le et schéma d’aménagement des terres du District de Rubavu d’utilisation directeur Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025205 Kigali, 28/07/2025 (sé) MURANGWA Yusuf Minisitiri w’Imari n’Igenamigambi Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Ministre des Finances et de la Planification Économique Bibonywe kandi bishyizweho Ikirango cya Repubulika: Seen and sealed with the Seal of the Republic: Vu et scellé du Sceau de la République: (sé) Dr UGIRASHEBUJA Emmanuel Minisitiri w’Ubutabera akaba n’Intumwa Nkuru ya Leta Minister of Justice and Attorney General Ministre de la Justice et Garde des Sceaux Official Gazette n° Special of 08/08/2025206