The City of Kigali has introduced a controversial land termination policy aimed at increasing urban development by pushing landowners of undeveloped properties in high-value areas to take action or face losing their ownership. The 2024 ministerial order targets prime locations like the Amahoro Stadium vicinity and other bustling parts of the city, where officials argue that stagnant land hampers growth. Under this directive, landowners must either develop their plots or risk temporary requisition or even termination of their ownership altogether if they are found in violation of the new rules.

While the government defends the policy as a necessary step to curb land speculation and promote urban development, critics contend that it poses significant threats to property rights and diminishes investor confidence. Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of due process, as the ministerial order stipulates that landowners should receive a notification at least 90 days before any requisition. However, there are apprehensions that this policy could undermine property ownership and foster an atmosphere of uncertainty for land investors and owners in Kigali.

The implications of this policy extend beyond immediate urban development, as it also challenges the existing legal frameworks governing property rights in Rwanda. Critics argue that the aggressive approach to land requisition could deter potential investments and perpetuate a culture of fear among property owners. Therefore, while aimed at stimulating development, the policy’s impact on property rights and the broader real estate market remains a subject of intense debate.