Abstract:
Cities contribute nearly 80% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and play a central role in driving economic transformation. However, rapid urbanization has intensified land use conversion, often leading to significant changes in land ownership and utilization patterns. This study examines the benefits and challenges of land use conversion for native landowners driven by urban expansion policies and mega-infrastructure projects, especially the Kigali International Airport relocation. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining household surveys, key informant interviews, participatory mapping, and spatial analysis using GIS. This study investigates the benefits and challenges of land use conversion associated with urban growth in Rilima Sector, Bugesera District, a rapidly urbanizing area influenced by strategic national projects such as Kigali International Airport expansion and the National Urbanization Policy 2050. Findings indicate that benefits, including improved infrastructure access, enhanced land value, increased employment opportunities, and better service delivery. This study recommends inclusive and environmentally sustainable, coping mechanisms to be integrated into planning frameworks which promotes resilience and equitable resource use that benefit all urban dwellers.
