In August 2025, UNDP SDG Local Action released a new publication titled “Innovating on waste management and water harvesting in cities: a case study on the city of Kigali, Rwanda”, which documents the city’s circular and community-led model for improving sanitation and water access in informal urban settlements.
This guideline features lessons from upgraded settlements in Mpazi and Busanza, two neighbourhoods where the city of Kigali tackled water affordability and poor waste management with smart, locally adapted, and sustainable innovative solutions. The project demonstrates how combining inclusivity, and nature-based strategies can dramatically improve the quality of life for low-income residents.
PROJECT GOALS
- Harvest rainwater through underground reservoirs to reduce water costs for low-income households.
- Improve sanitation and hygiene by installing smart solid waste collection and segregation stations.
- Build local capacity and strengthen community ownership of the facilities.
- Promote inclusive governance and gender representation in maintenance committees.
- Foster a sustainable, resilient urban infrastructure through public–community partnerships.
THE SOLUTION
- Smart and inclusive design: the project included underground rainwater tanks and smart waste bins with sensors to optimize collection.
- Adaptive implementation: iterative design allowed adjustments, such as changes in bin height and tank relocation, to meet evolving community needs.
- Stakeholder engagement: the city of Kigali involved residents, NGOs, CSOs, and national agencies in co-creating and managing the project.
- Sustainability measures: local maintenance committees were formed, with 30% women’s representation, and trained residents contributed to infrastructure upkeep.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
- Smart waste bins: six smart stations were built, serving over 1,350 households.
- Community training: more than 540 households were trained in using the facilities, far exceeding the original target.
- Waste segregation at source: 100% of residents in Busanza and Mpazi now sort waste efficiently at home.
- Sanitation improvements: fly infestations and odors have been reduced, and waste is no longer stored in open areas or improperly discarded.
- Behavior change: residents now follow better hygiene and waste practices.
Download the guideline in English here