Utilization of engineering and management strategies to minimize traffic fatalities and severe injuries on asphalt roads in Rwanda: the case of Kigali City

Abstract

Road traffic injuries continue to pose a major public health and development challenge in Rwanda, particularly in urban centers like Kigali where vulnerable road users (VRUs) frequently interact with mixed traffic under inadequate infrastructure conditions. This study assessed the utilization of engineering and management strategies to minimize traffic fatalities and severe injuries along the CBD Roundabout- KN1–RN1 Giticyinyoni corridor a 6.3 km stretch with high pedestrian and motorcyclist activity and recurrent crash hotspots. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 384 respondents through structured questionnaires, field observations, and key informant interviews. Descriptive analysis revealed that 59.9% of respondents had witnessed or been involved in a road crash along the corridor, with the highest concentration at Nyabugogo intersection (71.3%) and the Giticyinyoni curve (48.2%). Chi-square analysis showed a statistically significant association between crash experience and occupation (χ² = 36.28, p < 0.001), with drivers and pedestrians reporting the highest exposure. ANOVA results indicated significant differences in perceived enforcement effectiveness across user groups (F = 14.40, p < 0.001), with traffic police rating enforcement more favourably than other road users. More than 56% of respondents suggested urgent repairs to traffic signals, and 51.6% recommended the installation of automated enforcement systems such as speed cameras. Open-ended responses emphasized infrastructure needs including pedestrian overpasses (23.2%), protected cycling lanes (19.8%), and redesign of hazardous locations like the Giticyinyoni curve (17.7%). The study concludes that a combination of inadequate infrastructure, insufficient enforcement, and limited public awareness significantly contributes to traffic-related fatalities and injuries in Kigali.