Rwanda Security Forces Launch Classroom Construction to Ease Overcrowding in Kamonyi

Kamonyi, Rwanda March 9, 2026 - Authorities in Kamonyi District have launched the construction of new classroom facilities aimed at easing chronic overcrowding in local schools, as part of a broader civil-military initiative to support community development. The Rwanda National Police and the Rwanda Defence Forces jointly laid the foundation stone for a 498 million Rwandan franc project at Kigese Technical Secondary School (TSS), located in Rugarika Sector. The project предусматривает the construction of 10 classrooms, along with a laboratory, administrative offices, sanitation facilities, and a dedicated space for girls. Local officials say the expansion is expected to significantly reduce overcrowding at Kigese TSS and neighboring GS Masaka, where students have long faced congested and aging learning environments. The Governor of the Southern Province, Alice Kayitesi, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to improve education conditions in the region. “This school was overcrowded and had many old classrooms. These new facilities will address that challenge, and we are committed to supporting their completion,” she said. Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, emphasized that the project reflects a broader strategy linking national security with socio-economic development. “Security and development go hand in hand. Without security, there is no development, and it is difficult to sustain security in a country that does not address the welfare of its citizens,” he stated. The construction effort is part of nationwide outreach activities launched by security institutions to strengthen ties with communities and contribute to social welfare programs. Residents have also expressed optimism. A local parent, Uwimpayidufazizi, said the additional classrooms would create a better learning environment for children. “This initiative will help our children study in better conditions and improve their chances of success,” she noted. The development comes amid broader concerns over school infrastructure in Rwanda. In early 2025, the Ministry of Education Rwanda estimated that more than 26,000 additional classrooms are needed nationwide to adequately address overcrowding and improve learning conditions.