Since 2016, GGGI Rwanda has been supporting the country’s transition toward a sustainable built environment. This includes advancing green city development in Kigali and six secondary cities. As part of these efforts, GGGI, in collaboration with MININFRA and Aviation Travel and Logistics (ATL), initiated the green certification process for the New Kigali International Airport. Supported by the Korea New Green Deal Fund (now the Korea Green New Deal Trust Fund), the project aimed to integrate resource efficiency, climate adaptation, and sustainability into the airport’s design and infrastructure. The Government of Rwanda, in partnership with Qatar Investment Authority, is developing the New Kigali International Airport (NKIA) in Bugesera, approximately 23km to the southeast of Kigali City.

The new airport is projected to accommodate 7 million passengers per annum, during the first phase, with plans to expand the airport to handle up to 14 million passengers per annum in future phases. With support from GGGI, the project successfully secured a Provisional Green Building Certification under the Green Mark Certification Scheme, administered by Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA)—a globally recognized standard for sustainable infrastructure. This provisional award marks a significant milestone in demonstrating the airport’s commitment to environmental performance, with the Final Certification expected upon completion of construction.

This report evaluates strategies for climate mitigation and adaptation at the New Kigali International Airport (NKIA), aligning with Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability and climate resilience. It is envisioned as a regional hub that exemplifies green infrastructure and sustainable development in aviation. This report outlines approaches to reduce operational emissions, adapt to climate risks, and support Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.