The Kigali City authorities have announced that 10 additional buildings used for business purposes will be temporarily closed due to failure to meet fire safety requirements. This decision follows a similar move made last week, when five buildings were shut down for the same reason. The latest directive was issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, and the buildings will be closed from Friday, November 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM.
The affected buildings include Catchup Building in Gisimenti, Agakiriro ka Gatenga, Agakiriro ka Gahanga, Rwanda Foam Showroom in Gikondo, KAL Plaza in Gikondo, and N&B Plaza in Kigarama. Others are Eden Tower, Matheus House, Ntaganzwa House, and Ndaru Arcade, all located in the Nyarugenge district. These buildings were identified during a continuous inspection conducted by Kigali City to ensure they comply with fire safety regulations to protect human life and property.
The Kigali City authorities have emphasized that the move aims to protect business owners, employees, and customers. The buildings will be allowed to reopen once they meet the required fire safety standards and are verified by the authorities. The crackdown on non-compliant buildings comes amid a series of fire incidents in Rwanda, including recent ones that affected buildings in Gisozi and Goico Plaza.
Last week, on October 30, 2026, Kigali City announced the temporary closure of five buildings, effective from the evening of October 31, 2026. These included Agakiriro ka Kabuga, Umukindo, and Comejoga in Gisozi, ASMMS Ltd in Kicukiro, and Gahoromani Market. The authorities cited failure to comply with fire safety regulations, which posed a risk to human life and property.
In addition to the closure order, Kigali City authorities have reminded building owners that they are not allowed to charge tenants for the days the buildings are closed. Business owners have been advised to remove essential equipment or items that may be damaged before the buildings are shut down.
The Kigali City authorities have urged building owners, managers, and others with identified issues to rectify the problems and implement fire safety measures. The authorities have stressed that the goal is to ensure the safety of people and property, and compliant buildings will be allowed to reopen after verification.
The move is part of Kigali City's efforts to enhance building safety and prevent accidents that could result in loss of life and property. The recent incidents highlight the need for strict enforcement of fire safety regulations to protect businesses and human life.
Key points
- Kigali City authorities have shut down 15 buildings in two weeks due to non-compliance with fire safety regulations.
- The authorities have warned building owners to rectify identified issues to avoid prolonged closure.
- The crackdown aims to protect human life and property by ensuring businesses comply with fire safety standards.
