The Rwezamenyo Kiosk: A New Haven of Peace and Safety
In Kigali, in the neighbourhoods of Rwezamenyo and Nyakabanda, the Urban Fabric Initiatives has facilitated the installation of water kiosks in public spaces. This project addresses the issue of access to drinking water for residents of these two neighbourhoods in the Nyarugenge district. Designed and built in line with the Urban Nurseries’ participatory approach, the facilities combine meeting a basic need with improving the everyday living environment. As well as addressing this need for water, the project also provided an opportunity to build local skills through training schemes involving local craftspeople and workers from the neighbourhood.
“Today, the water kiosk is a safe place,”
Rodrigue Shumbusho, 23 – Rwezamenyo
Before the works began, Rodrigue Shumbusho, aged 23, originally from Karongi, was already the caretaker of the old water kiosk. He remembers it as a dilapidated place, marred by surface water and a lack of security.
“Before, the place was not in good condition and a lot of rainwater was running down this path. At night, it was dark and dangerous.”
“Now, the area is safe. The neighbours say that there are no more thefts. Thanks to the lighting no one can hide along the path.”
The area was poorly lit. After dark, residents avoided walking there. Assaults and mobile phone thefts were common. Some neighbours didn’t even dare to leave washing out to dry and would shut themselves away at home from 7 pm onwards. Today, the situation is quite different: the kiosk and the surrounding area have been refurbished and lit up.
Also involved in the work, Rodrigue ensured the materials were kept safe and gradually learnt the trade alongside the bricklayers.
“I have gained some basic skills in construction. The bricklayers trained me.”
He hopes to land a skilled job in the construction industry within a few months. Today, residents see the water kiosk area in a different light. Some even tell him that it has become so beautiful that they wonder if it’s still just a simple water kiosk. For Rodrigue, the transformation is clear: the place is no longer just a water source; it’s a safe and valued space for the entire neighborhood.