While garbage collection trucks have long been a familiar sight, the City of Kigali has now introduced modern vehicles that not only sweep but also scrub roads using advanced technology. This innovation aims to enhance cleanliness and improve road maintenance in the city.
Today, plastic bags and other street litter in Kigali are nearly a thing of the past. A walk through the city reveals a clean and orderly environment, thanks to strong government policies and a shift in citizens’ mindset regarding the importance of hygiene.
These sweeping vehicles clean and collect waste, then deposit it at designated sites. They operate during night hours, when both pedestrian and vehicle traffic is minimal, using built-in smart technology.
Many people initially questioned whether these machines would replace daily street cleaners. However, Kigali City spokesperson Ntirenganya Emma Claudine confirmed that the new vehicles are not meant to replace workers, but rather to support and complement their efforts.
She added that the number of these vehicles is expected to increase, and they will be deployed across various parts of the city to support street cleanliness in paved roads.
The City of Kigali began using these sweeping machines during the night of Saturday into Sunday, operating from 1:00 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., a period when streets are less busy.
This marks a new chapter in the city’s cleanliness initiatives, blending human effort with technology to maintain Kigali’s reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest cities.
