More than 30,000 people purchased land in Bugesera District in 2025, underscoring the district’s rapid emergence as one of Rwanda’s leading investment destinations, according to the National Land Authority.
The figures were revealed during an investment forum that brought together government officials and private sector stakeholders to showcase business opportunities in the district recently.
Alex Rutagengwa, Head of the Land Use and Mapping Department at the National Land Authority, said land demand in Bugesera has grown significantly over the past few years and continues to accelerate.
“In 2018 and 2019, around 5,000 people were buying land in Bugesera. That number rose to 8,000 in 2020, and last year it exceeded 30,000. This year we expect about 35,000 buyers, which shows that demand is continuing to grow,” Rutagengwa said.
The increase in land transactions is being driven by Bugesera’s long-term urban development strategy and several large-scale infrastructure projects. Under the district’s master plan, Bugesera’s population is projected to grow from more than 551,000 residents today to about 1.2 million by 2050, creating strong demand for housing, commercial developments and public infrastructure.
Rutagengwa also noted that more than 3,000 building permits are issued annually in the district.
However, only 30 percent of construction projects currently comply with the approved master plan, prompting authorities to urge investors and homeowners to consult zoning regulations before developing their properties.
“The master plan was introduced to prevent unplanned settlements and ensure Bugesera develops into a modern, well-organized city,” he said.
Much of Bugesera’s investment appeal is linked to the construction of the New Kigali International Airport, one of Rwanda’s largest infrastructure projects.
Construction is expected to be completed in 2027, with the airport scheduled to begin operations in 2028.
Once the first phase is completed, it will be able to handle eight million passengers and more than 150,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
The second phase, expected by 2032, will increase capacity to 14 million passengers per year.
Beyond aviation, Bugesera offers significant opportunities in tourism and agriculture.
The district is home to nine lakes, including Cyohoha North, Cyohoha South and Rweru, which could support investments in hotels, recreational facilities and eco-tourism.
These water resources could also be used for irrigation to address drought challenges affecting agriculture, with officials noting that 86 percent of the district’s land is suitable for farming.
Industrial development is also expanding through the Bugesera Special Economic Zone, which has capacity for between 92 and 100 factories and is equipped with electricity, water and supporting infrastructure.
Additional industrial zones are planned in Rilima and Rweru to promote orderly industrial growth.
Bugesera District Mayor Richard Mutabazi said the district’s strategic location and ongoing national projects continue to create new opportunities for investors.
“Bugesera has become a district of opportunity because major national projects are being implemented here. There is still enormous untapped investment potential, and every new development creates demand for housing, businesses and services,” he said.
The district is also improving transport connectivity through major road projects linking Masaka, Kabukuba, Nyabagendwa, Kindama and the new international airport.
With rising land demand, expanding infrastructure and ambitious urban planning, Bugesera is positioning itself as one of Rwanda’s fastest-growing economic hubs, attracting increasing interest from investors in real estate, manufacturing, tourism and logistics.
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