Rwanda Building Code: an MEP checklist for project teams

The Rwanda Building Code (Version 2, 2019) was published in the Official Gazette in April 2019. It is performance-based and applies to all buildings, and its stated purposes include protecting life and property from fire and other hazards. Rwanda has also been developing further fire standards, so confirm the current version with the Rwanda Housing Authority before relying on any copy you find online.

What performance-based means in practice

A performance-based code sets outcomes, so the design has to show how it meets them. That makes the design basis and the supporting calculations more important. A drawing set carried from another country may need more than a change of title block.

What to check on your project

• Code version: record the edition and standards used by each discipline.
• Fire strategy: coordinate escape, detection, firefighting water and smoke control with architecture early.
• Electrical: check installation standards and supply requirements with the regulator and utility.
• Climate: Kigali's elevation of about 1,500 m affects cooling and equipment selection, so state it in the design basis.
• Hospitals and public buildings: ask which additional sector standards apply.

Check the registered route

Engineers Rwanda keeps a public registry of engineers and firms. Before appointing anyone, use it to confirm who will take local engineering responsibility. Remote support should sit under that person.

Planning a project in Rwanda?

Discuss your Rwanda project. We provide scoped MEP design and document review from India.

Sources: Rwanda Building Code 2019 (copy hosted by ESMAP), Engineers Rwanda. Confirm current requirements with the Rwanda Housing Authority.