An investigation of construction accidents in Rwanda: perspectives from Kigali

Abstract

The International Labour Organization suggests that measuring accident statistics is the first step in reducing accident numbers. However, many developing countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, including Rwanda, do not record accident statistics. In response to this, a questionnaire survey of 130 construction workers was undertaken in Kigali, the capital of the Republic of Rwanda, to raise awareness of construction accidents within the country. The survey generated information about 482 non-fatal and six fatal/serious accidents from 23 construction sites. This information enabled the determination of the primary causes and frequencies of accidents. Analysis at individual respondent level revealed that accident rate varied with nature of work for some accident causes and the average employee accident rate was high. Analysis at construction site level revealed that accident rates for some accident causes varied with certain construction site characteristics. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this study will support further research regarding occupational safety in Rwanda.