The Chamber of Deputies has expressed satisfaction with explanations provided by the Minister of Environment, Bernadette Arakwiye, on challenges in land use and management identified during oversight visits across the country.

The Minister reported that 24 districts and the City of Kigali have approved land use master plans guiding socio-economic development. Only Ngororero, Burera, and Rutsiro are finalizing plans initiated in 2025. She emphasized that the plans are aligned with each district’s development priorities to ensure organized and sustainable growth.

On delays in land documentation, she noted that reforms introduced since 2023 have improved service delivery. Most services are now available online through Irembo, while private surveyors and notaries support transaction processing. Government systems have also been integrated to reduce administrative procedures.

The Minister clarified that residents in areas later designated for non-residential use will not be forced to relocate immediately, but new construction will not be permitted in order to comply with approved plans.

She further highlighted ongoing training for local leaders on land regulations and announced a national assessment of idle government land and unused public buildings to prepare them for productive use.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening sustainable and orderly land management nationwide.