The Kigali City administration announced on October 30, 2026, that five commercial buildings will be temporarily closed, effective from the evening of October 31, 2026. This decision was made due to the buildings' failure to adhere to fire safety regulations, putting people's lives and property at risk. The buildings affected include Agakiriro ka Kabuga, Umukindo, and Comejoga in Gisozi, ASMMS Ltd in Kicukiro, and Gahoromani Market.
According to the Kigali City administration, these buildings were found to be non-compliant with fire safety regulations, which could lead to disastrous consequences. The authorities emphasized that this decision was made to prevent potential risks to human life and property. The administration has given building owners a clear directive to take immediate action to address the issues.
The Kigali City administration has warned building owners that they are not allowed to charge tenants for the days the buildings will be closed. The authorities have also advised traders operating in these buildings to remove essential goods and items that may be damaged or perishable before the closure takes effect.
The five commercial buildings that have been temporarily closed are crucial economic hubs in the city. Agakiriro ka Kabuga, Umukindo, and Comejoga are popular shopping centers, while ASMMS Ltd is a significant commercial entity in Kicukiro. Gahoromani Market is a well-known marketplace in the city, providing essential goods and services to residents.
The Kigali City administration has urged building owners and managers to expedite the implementation of fire safety measures to prevent future risks. The authorities have emphasized the importance of prioritizing human life and property by adhering to fire safety regulations. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance safety standards in commercial buildings across the city.
The temporary closure of these commercial buildings is expected to have a significant impact on businesses and traders operating in the affected areas. However, the Kigali City administration has stressed that this decision is necessary to ensure public safety. Building owners and managers are expected to work closely with authorities to address the identified issues and restore operations as soon as possible.
The Kigali City administration has reiterated its commitment to enforcing fire safety regulations to protect human life and property. The authorities have called on building owners and managers to cooperate fully with the regulations to prevent future incidents. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance safety standards and prevent potential disasters in commercial buildings across the city.
Key points
- Kigali City authorities have temporarily closed five commercial buildings due to non-compliance with fire safety regulations.
- The closed buildings include Agakiriro ka Kabuga, Umukindo, Comejoga, ASMMS Ltd, and Gahoromani Market.
- Building owners are not allowed to charge tenants for the days the buildings will be closed.
