On Monday, 26 August 2024, a formal handover ceremony marked the conclusion of the five-year term of the outgoing City of Kigali Council. During the event, Prof. Kayihura Muganga Didas, the outgoing Chairperson, officially transferred responsibilities to the newly elected Chairperson, Mr. Kajeneri Mugenzi Christian. This transition followed the election of the City of Kigali's Bureau and Executive Council on 22 August 2024, where Mr. Dusengiyumva Samuel was elected as the Mayor of Kigali.

In addition to electing the Chairperson, other key leadership positions were also filled. Mr. Dusabimana Fulgence was elected Vice Mayor of Kigali, responsible for Infrastructure and Urbanisation, while Mrs. Urujeni Martine assumed the role of Vice Mayor in charge of Socio-Economic Affairs.

As the City Council concludes its term, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the significant achievements in infrastructure and urbanisation over the past five years:

- Construction of new roads: Over 138 kilometres of new roads were constructed.

- Expansion of existing roads: Five roads were expanded from single carriageways to dual carriageways, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.

- Footbridge construction: Ten foot bridges were built, providing safer pedestrian crossings on major roads.

- Electricity infrastructure upgrades: Seven electricity lines were upgraded and expanded, ensuring a more reliable power supply to meet growing demand.

- Approval of the Kigali City Master Plan: The City Council approved the Kigali City Master Plan, outlining the strategic direction for the city's development.

- Implementation of detailed physical plans: Out of 57 detailed physical plans introduced, 29 are currently being implemented, guiding the city's growth in a structured manner.

- Green City Kigali Master Plan: The Green City Kigali Master Plan, focused on sustainable urban development in the Kinyinya sector, was approved and is now ready for implementation.

- Housing for vulnerable communities: Forty-eight houses were constructed for vulnerable communities, providing safe and affordable housing.

- Affordable housing development: A total of 254 affordable houses were built in the Kigali Sector, addressing the need for accessible housing.

- Relocation housing: 167 houses were constructed in the Jali Sector to accommodate families relocated due to extreme weather events.

- Diplomatic village establishment: Phase I of the Diplomatic Village in the Kacyiru Sector was established, enhancing the city's international relations.

- Informal settlement upgrading: The Mpazi project was launched, aiming to build homes for low-income families in their current locations, with 688 families set to move in before the end of this year.

Looking ahead, the newly elected City Council has the important task of continuing the progress made by their predecessors. Key priorities in infrastructure and urbanisation for the upcoming term include:

- Dedicated Bus Lane (DBL) operationalisation: Implementing the DBL model to alleviate traffic congestion during peak hours.

- Development of detailed physical plans: Expediting the development and implementation of detailed physical plans to guide Kigali's future growth.

- Nyabugogo Bus Terminal: This modern transit hub is designed to support sustainable initiatives, including the use of renewable energy and eco-friendly construction materials. It will also create jobs and stimulate growth for local businesses, contributing to the overall economic development of the area.

- Special Economic Zone Wholesale Market for Fresh Produce: This strategic initiative is aimed at enhancing the agricultural value chain in Kigali and its surrounding regions. The market will facilitate better distribution, improve access to fresh produce, and strengthen the link between local farmers and consumers.

As the new City Council takes office, they will build on the foundation laid over the past five years, continuing to focus on sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life for the residents of Kigali. The City of Kigali aims to construct over 85 km of new roads in the next five years.