Rwanda: The Smart City Mirage - Who Are We Building For?

What the report says

In a commentary published by The New Times and distributed by AllAfrica, Rwandan writer Papias Dedeki Kazawadi questions whether smart-city projects in Africa are truly serving residents or mainly showcasing technology. The piece was published on 11 August 2026 and refers to remarks made at the Africa Australia Clean Energy Conference, held on 6-7 August at the Kigali Marriott Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda.

The article argues that features often associated with smart cities — such as intelligent transport systems, digital public services, solar-powered buildings and sensors — can still leave people behind if basic needs like affordability, access to electricity, connectivity and digital skills are not addressed. It also warns that the push for green infrastructure and clean-energy projects can replicate older extractive patterns if African countries export critical minerals without also building local industries, skills, jobs and community benefits.

Kazawadi frames the central challenge as one of execution rather than vision, saying fragmented institutions, weak ownership, ethics lapses and short-term thinking can undermine otherwise ambitious plans. The commentary says the most important infrastructure may be less visible than roads or buildings: competence, accountability and integrity.

The piece concludes by arguing for a “wise city” approach, one that connects people to opportunity and turns technology into better decisions and lasting public value. It is presented as a broader reflection on Rwanda’s urban future and Africa’s wider development path.