Compelling Factors of Urbanization and Rural-Urban Migration in Rwanda

Abstract

This article illustrates the policy intricacies of post-war reconstruction in contemporary Africa. It specifically examines the often neglected effects of ruralurban migration on urbanization and development in Rwanda after the genocide of 1994. Given the waves of urbanization caused by refugees returning to Rwanda, as well as by internal migration precipitated by fear of conflict and insecurity, grouped settlements termed imidugudu have been introduced by government, as an alternative means of providing facilities similar to those offered in cities. To be efficient, the imidugudu need to be well planned and obtain consistent support from the government. However, even if this were forthcoming, such a solution might not be sufficient to deal with the impact of rural-urban migration on urbanization and development, despite the overall growth in the economy. Relying upon pre-existing research, this article analyzes the determinants of rural-urban migration and their consequences for development in Rwanda. The article calls for further, more-detailed investigation of how rural-urban migration is affecting the distribution of development; in the course of reconstructing peace and furthering sustainable economic well-being in Rwandan society.