ASSESSMENT OF URBAN DENSIFICATION,IN RWANDA CASE STUDY: GASABO DISTRICT, GISOZI SECTOR

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of urban densification in the Gisozi sector of Kigali, Rwanda, where rapid urbanization has led to a population density of 10,166 people per square kilometer, with a growth rate of 5.6%. The research explores the drivers of densification, such as rural-to-urban migration and the perceived affordability of living in Gisozi. It evaluates how this densification affects land use, infrastructure, and housing, highlighting the increasing strain on resources and the need for sustainable development practices. The study uses data from the Rwanda National Institute of Statistics and GIS mapping to analyze population distribution and land use patterns, providing a clear understanding of how urban density is evolving in Gisozi. The research further suggests strategic approaches to manage this growth, including vertical construction, reducing plot sizes, and increasing the number of households per plot. These strategies aim to optimize land use while maintaining sustainable urban development. By drawing comparisons with densification practices in cities such as Addis Ababa and New York, the study identifies best practices for addressing urban growth challenges in Kigali. The findings offer practical recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and developers to enhance infrastructure resilience and promote balanced, sustainable urban growth in Gisozi and similar urban areas in Rwanda.