Kigali
Understanding the health impacts of extreme heat in Rwanda’s capital
FOCUS CITIES · RWANDA
About Kigali
Kigali, situated near the centre of Rwanda, is the country’s capital and largest city. It has experienced rapid population growth and urbanisation in recent years. According to 2022 census data, an estimated 1.75 million people are living in the city, compared to approximately six thousand inhabitants in 1962.
Despite the city’s generally moderate average temperatures of 14°C to 22°C, historical weather records indicate a rising trend, with observed temperature increases of over 0.5°C per decade, and extreme heat events reaching up to 30°C in peak months. The urban heat island effect — whereby expansive concrete surfaces and road networks contribute to elevated ambient temperatures — further exacerbates rising temperatures.
Our research in Kigali will focus on the health impacts of heat on school-age children and construction workers.
OUR RESEARCH IN KIGALI
Heat research
Our work in Kigali focuses on the health impacts of extreme heat on school-age children and construction workers.