The cable car in Kigali could become the first urban aerial transit system in sub-Saharan Africa. The project was initiated by Ropeways Transit Rwanda Ltd (RTRL) and includes a 5.5-kilometer cable car line intended to revolutionize public transportation in Kigali, Rwanda.

The implementation is estimated to cost around 100 million US dollars.

African Development Bank Group president Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, said: “This transformative project aligns perfectly with the Bank’s vision for sustainable, green climate-resilient urban mobility infrastructure, and with the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy, which focuses on urbanization, and the Alliance for Green Infrastructure in Africa (AGIA), a global partnership initiative driven by the African Development Bank Group, Africa50 and the African Union. By financing Rwanda’s urban cable car system, we are investing in a scalable model of low-carbon, inclusive public transport that cities across Africa can emulate.”

Technical Details

The first phase of the project is planned to include two routes: from Nyabugogo Taxi Park to the city center, and from the Kigali Convention Center to Kigali Sports City. Key public locations such as the Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and Zaria Court will be connected.

Construction of the cable car system is scheduled to begin at the end of 2026, with operations starting in 2028. The system is expected to transport over 50,000 passengers daily on a 15-minute end-to-end ride and will be integrated into the existing transport network.

The feasibility study aims to draw lessons from successful cable car systems in La Paz (Bolivia) and Singapore. The system will prioritize accessibility for people with disabilities, employment opportunities for girls and women, and support for low-income residents.

Financing

The $100 million financing package is expected to come from a mix of grants, concessional loans, blended finance, and technical assistance.

The feasibility study is anticipated to attract international investments, including through platforms like the Africa Investment Forum.