Rwanda launches a road construction model that combats climate change disasters
Ahmed Salem
Rwanda has launched a model for creating climate-resilient roads, with the aim of transforming the design and construction methods of transport infrastructure to be able to withstand climate-related shocks.
This pilot project was unveiled on Friday, June 26, along National Route 16 (NR16) linking the Mohanga area in the Southern Province with the Ngororero and Mocamera areas in the Western Province.
Sectors highly vulnerable to the risks of climate change
This initiative targets four high-risk sectors in the Ngororero and Niabiho districts, where roads have been constantly damaged by landslides, floods, erosion, and heavy rainfall.
Officials point out that this approach shifts the focus from reactive repairs after damage has occurred to proactive planning that takes climate considerations into account and anticipates risks before any breakdown or damage takes place.
The pilot project – implemented by the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) with support from the Nordic Development Fund (NDF) – began in 2022 and involved the rehabilitation of infrastructure worth 2.43 billion Rwandan francs. The project also resulted in the development of technical tools and standards expected to guide future road construction.
The project was based on a comprehensive assessment of the nationwide road network, with a focus on understanding the reasons why vital routes are frequently damaged by harsh weather conditions.
