The African Development Bank has approved a $500,000 grant to fund a feasibility study for the Kigali Urban Cable Car Project, a landmark initiative that aims to introduce sub-Saharan Africa’s first aerial urban transit system.

The project, led by Ropeways Transit Rwanda Ltd, is set to transform public transport in the Rwandan capital with a planned 5.5 km network valued at $100 million.

The first phase will connect two key corridors: Nyabugogo Taxi Park to the Central Business District and the Kigali Convention Center to Kigali Sports City.

The system will link major sites, including Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and Zaria Court, offering a modern transport alternative for residents and visitors.

The grant, provided through the Bank’s Urban and Municipal Development Fund, will support critical groundwork for a system designed to ease traffic congestion, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and improve access to jobs and essential services, especially for underserved communities.

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The $100 million funding package will combine grants, concessional loans, blended finance, and technical assistance.

The feasibility study aims to draw international investment, including through platforms like the Africa Investment Forum.

The Urban and Municipal Development Fund previously supported the feasibility study for Kigali’s Urban Transport Improvement Project, underscoring its ongoing commitment to enhancing the city’s mobility infrastructure.

Construction of the cable car system is expected to begin in late 2026, with commissioning scheduled for 2028.

Once operational, the network is projected to transport more than 50,000 passengers a day, offering a seamless 15-minute end-to-end journey that will integrate with Kigali’s existing public transport system.

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