Abstract:
This study examines the effects of the rising cost of building materials on affordable housing
development in Rwanda. The primary objective is to assess how fluctuating material costs
impact the affordability and accessibility of housing projects aimed at low-income populations.
This investigation addresses the urgent need to understand the challenges facing affordable
housing initiatives in Rwanda, where increasing construction costs threaten housing affordability
and project viability.
The significance of this study lies in its potential to inform policymakers, developers, and
stakeholders about the critical barriers to affordable housing. By highlighting the relationship
between material costs and housing development, the study aims to contribute to more effective
strategies and policies for sustainable housing solutions.
The methodology includes a comprehensive analysis of cost trends for key building materials,
alongside case studies of recent affordable housing projects in the Bugesera district. Data were
collected through surveys, interviews with industry experts, and a review of project financial
reports.
The findings indicate that escalating building material costs significantly hinder the progress of
affordable housing projects, resulting in increased project budgets and extended development
timelines. This cost escalation adversely affects the feasibility of maintaining affordable housing
rates for low-income families.
In response to these findings, the study recommends that stakeholders explore alternative
materials and construction techniques to mitigate cost impacts. Additionally, it suggests the
implementation of supportive policies and financial mechanisms to stabilize material prices and
promote affordable housing development.
