Workers and trucks are seen clearing the new apron - an airport parking - which according to Rwanda Airports (RAC) engineers is 53,000 square metres with capacity to accommodate 18 aircraft.

At the airport main building, construction crews are working on an arrivals terminal meant to increase passenger area space, to avoid long queues and comply with internationally accepted standards.

The Covid-19 pandemic, which has taken a heavy toll on air transport services, has allowed the government to embark on expansion of major areas of the airport to increase its capacity.

Last year, Kigali International Airport processed at least 1.2 million arrivals, according to the minister, and that the idea is to direct financial resources towards building aviation.

The investment by the Qatari Government in the airport in Bugesera is expected to ultimately handle 14 million passengers annually, double Kigali International Airport's current capacity.