While many of these projects have traditionally been driven by experienced investors, a growing number of young entrepreneurs are stepping into the real estate sector, answering national calls to play a more active role in development.
Among them is Prime Gate Developers, a company represented by engineer Delphin Tuyishime. Working with a team of young professionals, the firm has launched an ambitious housing project known as Sahara Residence.
The 12-storey building is being constructed near Lemigo Hotel, just five minutes from Amahoro Stadium and about 10 minutes from the city centre.
Tuyishime, who chairs the company’s board, partnered with Augustin Kabandana and investor Gerard Mpyisi to bring the project to life. Construction officially began on April 25, 2026.
Explaining what inspired the idea, Tuyishime pointed to the role locals often play in projects initiated by foreign investors.
“I noticed that foreigners come here to invest, and we are the ones implementing their projects. In the end, they benefit from ideas that originate from us,” he said.
He added that his experience in Dubai, where the housing sector is highly developed, pushed him to think about applying similar concepts back home.
“Having seen how advanced real estate is in Dubai, I told myself we should be doing the same in our country. That’s when I reached out to partners and we began working on how to make this project a reality,” he explained.
For Gerard Mpyisi, the project was not immediately convincing. “To be honest, when they first presented the idea to me, I thought it was impossible,” he said. “I challenged them to go and secure all the required construction permits, and within a short time, they came back with everything ready.”
He revealed that the land where the building is being constructed had originally been reserved for his family, but they eventually agreed to repurpose it.
“My family didn’t understand it at first when I told them the property would be redeveloped. But when I showed them what was planned here, they accepted without hesitation. In two years, you will see an outstanding building on this site,” he said.
Prime Gate Developers currently employs more than 40 young professionals under the age of 30, working in areas such as architectural design, marketing, and technology. The company is led by CEO Dr. Egide Igabe, who previously played a role in introducing electric public transport during his time at Volcano Express.
The Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) has welcomed the initiative, describing it as aligned with national housing priorities.
“We need more investors like Prime Gate Developers, especially those focusing on residential housing,” said RHA Director General Alphonse Rukaburandekwe. “Under NST2, we are required to build over 500,000 housing units. As RHA, we are committed to working with investors to ensure Rwandans have access to quality, well-regulated housing.”
What Sahara Residence will offer
Sahara Residence is designed as a mixed-use development. The ground floor and first level will accommodate commercial spaces, including restaurants, offices, and retail outlets.
Located in Kimihurura, the building sits close to the Kigali Convention Centre, one of the city’s key business hubs.
From the second to the 12th floor, the building will feature modern apartments equipped with essential amenities, including spacious living areas, fitted kitchens, and en-suite bedrooms.
Residents will also have access to a swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, and ample parking.
In total, the development includes 111 units, with 101 available for sale. About 70% have already been purchased, with the remaining units expected to be sold within a month.
Investment in the property starts at $126,000. Buyers can make an initial payment of between 20% and 30%, with the remaining balance payable in installments of 1%.
According to the developers, the project offers an annual return on investment ranging between 12% and 18%, positioning it as both a residential and investment opportunity.
The company says its team remains available to provide guidance and detailed information to interested investors through its official channels.
Prime Gate Developers has several projects aimed at transforming housing in Kigali.
Construction of Sahara Residence is expected to take two years.
Photos: Munyaneza Isaac
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