Relocation and informal settlement upgrading: impacts on residents’ wellbeing and housing security in Kigali, Rwanda

Background Informal settlements pose significant health, environmental, and social challenges, affecting over 70% of Kigali’s urban population. In response, the government of Rwanda launched major urban redevelopment efforts in Kigali, including in-situ upgrades and relocation to formal housing settlements. While these policies aim to reduce disaster risk and improve living conditions, their impact on residents’ wellbeing and housing security has been underexplored. Methods This qualitative study assessed the experiences of residents across two key settlements: Mpazi (in-situ upgrading) and Busanza (relocation). Six focus group discussions were conducted with 85 participants in June 2023, divided into tenants and landlords living in either informal settlements or formal apartments. Discussions covered housing conditions, compensation, service access, and community ties. Discussion recordings were transcribed and translated from Kinyarwanda to English. Data was coded and thematically analyzed using MAXQDA to identify major themes, including safety, affordability, livelihoods, and social networks. Results Residents in formal housing reported improvements in safety and environmental resilience. However, in Busanza, relocation led to financial strain, social isolation, and job disruption due to spatial dislocation. In Mpazi, in-situ upgrading preserved social ties and access to livelihoods but raised concerns about infrastructure quality and affordability. Across all groups, participants emphasized the need for more involvement in planning and decision-making. Conclusions Urban redevelopment in Kigali has resulted in significant infrastructural improvements, but it has also introduced new vulnerabilities related to affordability, employment, community cohesion, and health access. Future relocation strategies should integrate community engagement and long-term wellbeing to avoid exacerbating social inequities.