1. Digital Building Permit System: KUBAKA
In April 2025, Rwanda launched KUBAKA, an upgraded digital building permit platform that replaced the older permit system. KUBAKA integrates land ownership, tax compliance, zoning regulations and master plan checks into a single online application process. This digital approach reduces delays and increases transparency, improving government oversight of the construction approval process.
2. Strengthened Professional Regulations
On 1 September 2025, Rwanda enacted Law No. 23/2025, which made registration and licensing mandatory for architects, engineers and quantity surveyors. This law aims to professionalise the sector and improve accountability by penalising unlicensed practice. There was a six-month grace period to allow practitioners to regularise their status.
3. Satellite Monitoring for Compliance
The City of Kigali introduced satellite-based monitoring of construction works in early 2025. This technology enables weekly observation of building activities and land use changes, helping officials identify unapproved construction early and enforce compliance with permits.
4. Zero Tolerance for Illegal Construction
Kigali’s monitoring efforts uncovered over 4,000 unauthorized buildings constructed since mid-2024. Authorities acted to halt and, where necessary, demolish illegal developments, particularly in non-residential zones and environmentally sensitive areas, demonstrating a stricter enforcement stance.
