Rwanda is known for its stunning landscapes and mountain gorillas. The country also takes immense pride in hosting Kigali the cleanest city in Africa! But the cleanliness isn’t just a happy accident; it’s a result of hard work, discipline, and dedication from the people of Rwanda.
Kigali’s cleanliness isn’t something that happens naturally. It’s a collective effort, with everyone pitching in to maintain the city’s pristine appearance. The Rwandan people actively work towards the goal of achieving the Cleanest City in Africa.
In the 2000s, the Rwandan government took a significant step to ban non-biodegradable plastic bags and similar materials. Vendors caught selling them could face hefty fines and sometimes imprisonment. This move not only improved the Kigali city’s appearance but also reduced pollution, creating a cleaner, fresher atmosphere for the people of Rwanda.
Rwanda’s “Umuganda” contributes to the Cleanest City Status
Rwanda instituted “Umuganda”, a monthly practice, is deeply rooted in the Rwandan culture. Every last Saturday of the month, people come together to work on various community projects, from cleaning public spaces to assisting neighbors with home repairs. This initiative promotes not only a clean city but also clean households and personal hygiene.
To protect the environment, laws were established, and the Rwanda National Police imposed fines for littering. The city of Kigali District strategically placed waste bins throughout the city to discourage littering. A rigorous garbage collection system ensures that trash is collected every Tuesday, with households and companies contributing to the maintenance of cleanliness in the cleanest city in Africa.
Kigali’s Trash Collection
The Kigali city is also working on setting up trash collection sites in suburban areas and collaborating with local businesses to install public toilets. Hotels and restaurants in Kigali City must adhere to strict hygiene regulations to safeguard the health of citizens.
These environmental initiatives and awareness campaigns have created a ripple effect, encouraging businesses to become more environmentally conscious. For example, the many Hotels have made changes like using energy-efficient light bulbs and maintaining green gardens to contribute to the environmental cause.
If you’re considering a visit to this hidden gem in Africa, you can stay at on of the many hotels. They offer a range of rates to fit different budgets and even provide a free airport pickup service. This way, you can experience firsthand the beauty and cleanliness of Rwanda’s greenest and Cleanest city in Africa.