Vertical Housing Development Interventions for Sustainable Urban Development in Kigali. The Case Study on Kigali City

This paper analyzes vertical housing development interventions as a means to combat housing problem, inappropriate use of land and land development failures in Nyarugenge district. Interviews with Kigali City 100 residents were used to capture opinions and planning standards on vertical housing development and their influence on urban development as opposed to horizontal development. In addition, 20 site visits and observations confirmed actual development practices. Findings have shown that 87% of Nyarugenge residents view vertical development in a positive impact by providing enough space for indoor activities while saving more land for further land uses. They had also an opinion that vertical development influences proper land use in the city. Despite these opportunities, vertical housing development initiatives are prohibited by insufficient fund and technical experts to facilitate construction of many high-rise buildings while integrating the concept of smart housing which promotes smart housing management and effective use of water, electricity and internet connectivity. As a result, buildings which result from vertical developments are constructed in Reinforced concrete materials and the height of most Buildings range from 8 to 15 storeys. Density characteristics also is well arranged and connected to each other to offer easy accessibility in shot time. Therefore, these buildings take into account three components of sustainability which are social, economic and environmental. Study, recommends use of smart technologies during the construction of vertical buildings as well as in managing them for effective use of that building including remote building control. Keywords: Vertical Development, Urban Development, Nyarugenge District, Rwanda.