Rwanda's cleanliness signals a broader developmental agenda

Abstract

Rwanda has made remarkable progress in health and other domains over the last 25 years. This is usually attributed to a determined national government under single-minded leadership. On a recent study visit to the country, it became clear that there are two important local drivers of development as well: community participation in regular civic campaigns and a managed approach to urbanisation. This has fostered social solidarity and helped to create more efficient and liveable cities, writes Prof Ivan Turok.