The issue of tent businesses has many people concerned by alleged reports suggesting that the City of Kigali plans to prohibit the use of tents.
However, Mérard Mpabwanamaguru, the vice mayor in charge of urbanisation and infrastructure in the City of Kigali, recently clarified that tent operators may need to meet different requirements depending on the location of their business and the number of people they can accommodate.
According to the Rwandan Building Code, which City of Kigali officials noted also applies to tents, here are 12 requirements that must be met prior to setting up a tent for an event in Kigali.
1. Energy efficiency
The requirements focus on designing place envelopes with sufficient thermal resistance and minimal air leakage. They also emphasise developing and selecting mechanical, water heating, electrical, and illumination systems that encourage efficient utilisation of desirable energy resources.
2. Air conditioning, heating and mechanical ventilation
This covers the design, construction, and installation of air conditioning and heating systems and equipment at the venue. These systems are intended to ensure and uphold suitable air temperature, humidity, purity, and distribution for the space’s use.
3. Electrical installations
It covers the essential requirements for electrical and related installations in tents to ensure efficient electricity use, including safety from fire and shock. This section also includes general requirements relating to lightning protection of the venue.
4. Lighting and ventilation
It covers requirements and methods for lighting and ventilation of venues.
5. Sound insulation and noise control
It covers requirements and guidelines for noise control, acceptable noise levels, and the requirements for sound insulation on tents with different occupancies.
6. Stairways, ramps and guarding
It covers elements of accessibility for all its users, including people with disabilities.
7. Security systems
It covers all fittings and installations to monitor the movement of people entering and exiting to ensure security.
8. Telecommunication installations
It covers all fittings and related accessories for broadband or internet.
9. Plumbing and drainage
This necessitates skilled engineers for all plumbing installations, encompassing gas, rainwater, and drainage requirements. It also includes the fundamental water supply needs for residential, business, and other venues, such as traffic terminal stations.
This section also covers the general requirements for plumbing connected to public water supply and the design of water supply and storage systems.
Drainage encompasses the design, layout, construction, and maintenance of drains for foul water, surface water, sub-soil water, and sewage, including all related works like connections, manholes, and inspection chambers within and outside the venue, as well as their connection to a public system.
10. Waterborne sanitation
It collects and covers wastewater around the venue in a hygienic manner.
11. Non- waterborne sanitation
It covers all types of pit latrines and their applications in the venue.
12. Solid waste management
It covers all types of solid wastes resulting from the use of venues and appropriate methods of management. It is important for the protection of public health, safety, and environmental quality.