EFFECTS OF RISING COST OF BUILDING MATERIALS ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN RWANDA. CASE STUDY: NYAMATA SECTOR BUGESERA DISTRICT.

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.