Category: Uncategorized

  • East Africa set to revive regional railway and oil pipeline projects #rwanda #RwOT

    The announcement came during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Devki Mega Steel Project in Tororo District, Uganda, on November 23, attended by Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. Both leaders confirmed plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Kenya to Uganda and onward to Rwanda, and to co-own the Mombasa-Kampala oil pipeline.

    'In January, we will be launching the extension of the SGR from Naivasha to Malaba, then to Kampala, and onwards to the Democratic Republic of Congo, passing through Rwanda. This project is aimed at improving transport and logistics across the region to enhance competitiveness,' President Ruto said.

    He also confirmed progress on the pipeline: 'Joint investment of the pipeline from Eldoret through Kampala to the border with DRC and Rwanda is in an advanced stage. The governments of Kenya and Uganda have given approval to co-invest in extending this pipeline so it can serve East Africa as a jointly owned facility.'

    Kenya is divesting around 60 percent of the pipeline’s ownership to allow Uganda, Rwanda, and private investors to participate.

    'As the governments and regional investors co-invest in the Kenya Pipeline Company, I encourage citizens of our region to equally participate. Shares will be made available to public entities, but more importantly, to citizens of our region,' Ruto added.

    President Museveni praised the initiative, emphasising its broader impact on regional trade and security.

    'These roads and transport systems are currently inefficient. We need to rationalise them. Fuel will go through the pipeline, while cargo and passengers will use the railway. This will allow us to co-invest up to the Congo border and ensure the secure transport of resources,' Museveni said.

    Rwanda has already completed feasibility studies for the railway extension through its territory, with government officials confirming readiness to implement the project once the neighbouring countries finalise their sections.

    'The studies will guide the construction process. Now, it is a matter of seeing neighbouring countries begin their sections,' Emmanuel Nuwamanya, acting Head of Policy and Planning at the Ministry of Infrastructure, told a forum organised by the African Development Bank on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

    Preparations for Uganda’s section of the SGR from Malaba to Kampala have already begun, with Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi conducting geotechnical surveys along the 273-kilometre corridor. Most of the land has been acquired, ending nearly two decades of delays.

    The projects, which include upgrading Northern Corridor roads and constructing dual carriageways linking key border towns, are expected to reduce transport costs, boost regional trade, generate thousands of jobs, and strengthen integration across East Africa, including Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda.

    President William Ruto of Kenya announced that work on the construction of the railway will resume in January 2026.

    The resumption of the railway line would mark a significant milestone for regional trade and integration.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/east-africa-set-to-revive-regional-railway-and-oil-pipeline-projects

  • Nationwide campaign strengthens Rwanda’s capital market engagement #rwanda #RwOT

    Led by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in partnership with the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), the Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd, and the Private Sector Federation (PSF), the initiative engaged over 700 enterprises across all four provinces and Kigali. Participants included SMEs, cooperatives, corporates and prospective issuers seeking guidance on raising equity and debt capital through formal markets.

    CMA Chief Executive Officer, Thapelo Tsheole, said the nationwide effort successfully brought financial market opportunities closer to businesses that traditionally operated outside the capital.

    'We set out to bring capital market opportunities to every part of Rwanda, and we achieved that. This effort represents the beginning of a wider strategy to extend financial participation and stimulate enterprise development through local markets,' he said.

    Private Sector Federation CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, noted that the capital market provides patient, partnership-oriented capital that can accelerate business expansion and reduce overreliance on collateral-based loans. He highlighted financing instruments such as corporate bonds, commercial paper, stock exchange listings and real estate investment trusts as tools that enable companies to diversify their capital base and scale sustainably.

    Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd CEO, Jonathan Gatera, emphasised that long-term domestic savings will continue to anchor the country’s capital market growth.

    'Increased saving drives domestic investment. That change in behaviour is fundamental to building sustainable financial capacity,' he said, pointing to the rising importance of pension schemes, unit trusts and pooled investment vehicles.

    From the market operations perspective, Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, stressed that public markets provide more than just capital, helping issuers strengthen governance and operational standards.

    'A public listing provides not just funding, but structure, discipline, and visibility. For ambitious companies, it is a strategic evolution,' he said.

    Speaking from private sector experience, Grain Millers Plc Chairperson, Chantal Habiyakare, said listing on the market transformed the company’s competitiveness and formalisation.

    'We are living proof that the market works. Going public helped us grow, formalise operations, and compete more effectively. It changed how we operate for the better,' she said.

    Delivering the keynote address, Steven Biganiro, Director General of Capital Markets and Investment Schemes at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mobilising domestic resources and strengthening financial independence.

    'We have laid the foundation. The next step is to build an economy in which our own markets finance our own development. This is about sustainability and shared prosperity,' he said.

    While the nationwide campaign has concluded, stakeholders agree that the work continues. The roadshows are seen as a catalyst for sustained engagement among enterprises, regulators and investors as Rwanda seeks to expand market participation and liquidity.

    With more local companies exploring listings and international investors seeking entry into frontier markets, Rwanda is positioning itself to build a more transparent, inclusive and robust financial ecosystem capable of financing national development from within.

    CMA CEO Thapelo Tsheole stated that the campaign brought capital market opportunities closer to businesses beyond the capital.

    RSE CEO Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba told the delegates that public markets help companies strengthen governance and operational standards.

    Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd CEO, Jonathan Gatera, emphasised that long-term domestic savings will continue to anchor the country’s capital market growth.

    Private Sector Federation CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, noted that the capital market provides patient, partnership-oriented capital that can accelerate business expansion and reduce overreliance on collateral-based loans.

    Participants included SMEs, cooperatives, corporates and prospective issuers seeking guidance on raising equity and debt capital through formal markets.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/nationwide-campaign-strengthens-rwanda-s-capital-market-engagement

  • Trump hits out at Ukraine and Europe as confusion grows over US peace plan #rwanda #RwOT

    The discussions were centred on a 28-point proposal, confirmed to be authored by the United States with input from both Kyiv and Moscow. The proposal, which leaked days prior to the talks, caused widespread confusion among allies and a fierce political debate within the US administration.

    In a series of weekend posts on his social media platform, President Trump complained that Ukraine’s leadership 'has expressed zero gratitude' for American efforts. He also accused European countries of continuing to buy oil from Russia while the United States 'continues to sell massive amounts of weapons to NATO, for distribution to Ukraine.' His comments came directly before the Geneva negotiations began.

    The peace framework also sparked chaos in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced a major crisis after reports emerged that he told Senators the plan was a “Russian wish list” and not an American proposal. Rubio then publicly reversed course, confirming via a social media post that the plan was indeed “authored by the U.S.” but based on input from all sides. Trump, for his part, later said the plan was not America’s 'final offer,' adding to the uncertainty over Washington’s definitive position.

    In Europe, leaders voiced significant concerns about the proposal’s concessions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated publicly that while a chance to end the war existed, he was “still quite a way from a good outcome for everyone,” reflecting widespread European scepticism. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that any settlement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and preserve the European Union’s central role in security.

    From Kyiv, senior Ukrainian officials were cautiously positive about the diplomatic process but firm on red lines. Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, said the Geneva meeting showed 'very good progress' and noted that teams would continue to refine the text.

    However, a major sticking point is that the draft framework reportedly crosses Ukraine’s long-standing red lines, particularly demanding the withdrawal of forces from the remaining Ukrainian-controlled part of Donetsk province, a territorial concession Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.

    The proposal has also drawn criticism in Washington. Several Republican lawmakers rejected the plan’s concessions, warning that any agreement must reflect 'the will of the Ukrainian people,' signalling deep resistance to any arrangement that could pressure Ukraine into ceding territory.

    European diplomats warned privately that they were preparing for the possibility that the United States could scale back its military and financial support for Ukraine, a scenario they described as increasingly plausible if Kyiv rejects the plan. They stressed that if Western unity breaks down, Ukraine could be left vulnerable at a critical moment in the conflict.

    The Geneva talks are expected to continue, but the fundamental disagreements surrounding the peace plan, combined with Trump’s public attacks, have raised new questions about whether the West can remain united as efforts continue to reach a credible and durable settlement.

    US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised both Ukraine’s leadership and several European governments as high-level officials met in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 23, 2025, to discuss a controversial peace framework aimed at ending the war with Russia.

    Rania Umutoni

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/trump-hits-out-at-ukraine-and-europe-as-confusion-grows-over-us-peace-plan

  • South Africa salvages credibility of G20 summit amid global tensions #rwanda #RwOT

    The summit opened under strain. The United States boycotted the meeting entirely.

    Russia’s Vladimir Putin, China’s Xi Jinping and Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum were also absent from the summit. Putin is wanted by the international criminal court, to which South Africa is a signatory. Xi has delegated attending many international gatherings this year to China’s premier, Li Qiang.

    In an unusual move, world leaders from the Group of 20 broke with tradition and adopted a declaration at the start of their summit in South Africa on Saturday despite opposition from the United States.

    Traditionally, such declarations are adopted at the end, but the hosts acted early to ensure the meeting showed at least a minimum of unity.

    The declaration focused on the priorities of developing countries, highlighting debt sustainability and the need for support to nations affected by climate-related disasters.

    President Cyril Ramaphosa said the text 'reaffirms our renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation and our recognition that our shared goals outweigh our differences.' The declaration remained non-binding and largely symbolic.

    Besides, the war in Ukraine dominated discussions, and French president Emmanuel Macron warned that the G20 'may be reaching the end of a cycle,' saying members were finding it difficult to resolve major crises together.

    Only hours after the declaration was adopted, Argentina’s foreign minister said his country 'cannot approve this declaration,' pointing to 'red lines,' especially regarding the wording on the Middle East conflict.

    The United States also criticized the host country, accusing South Africa of 'weaponising their G20 presidency to undermine the G20’s founding principles.'

    Although a joint declaration allowed the summit to save face on paper, the tensions revealed in Johannesburg showed the fragile state of the forum.

    South Africa managed to salvage the credibility of a faltering G20 summit held in Johannesburg on November 22—23, 2025, the first time the forum was hosted on African soil.

    Rania Umutoni

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/south-africa-salvages-credibility-of-g20-summit-amid-global-tensions

  • Kigali’s 2050 master plan positions the city as modern African economic hub (Photos) #rwanda #RwOT

    According to national development projections, Rwanda’s per capita income is expected to rise to USD 12,476 (over Rwf 17 million) by 2050, supported by rapid economic growth, increased productivity, and stronger social protection systems.

    Unemployment is forecast to drop sharply to 0.05 percent from 7 percent in 2035, while universal access to water, electricity, and improved social services is expected to significantly increase national living standards and life expectancy to at least 73 years.

    Kigali population growth driving infrastructure demand

    The 2022 national census estimated Kigali’s population at 1.7 million, a figure projected to more than double to 3.8 million by 2050. This population growth is shaping a comprehensive city development master plan that focuses on expanding affordable and modern housing, upgrading public transport and mobility systems, developing improved economic hubs and commercial districts, and protecting green spaces through environmentally sustainable planning.

    The master plan also identifies strategic zones for investment, including Nyarugenge CBD, Remera, Kimironko, Gahanga, Nyabugogo, and Muhima, each earmarked for specific economic and cultural roles.

    The vision for Kigali in 2050 positions the capital as a modern, competitive, and investment-ready city.

    Transformation of Nyarugenge CBD

    The Central Business District, home to major commercial towers such as M-Peace Plaza and KCT, is set for a significant upgrade to strengthen its role as Rwanda’s prime financial and business hub. The development will expand pedestrian-only zones and enhance urban aesthetics, redesign roundabouts to incorporate gardens, walkways, and improved traffic flow, and create new cultural spaces, including an arts complex near Sainte-Famille.

    Additionally, the historic Quartier Matheus commercial area will be modernised while preserving its heritage architecture. New pedestrian corridors will link the CBD to Muhima and Nyabugogo, integrating retail, tourism, cultural activities, and green spaces to create a more vibrant and connected city centre.

    How the city center, along with Muhima, Kiyovu, and surrounding neighborhoods, is planned in the master plan.

    Nyabugogo to become a modern regional transport gateway

    Nyabugogo, one of the region’s busiest terminals connecting passengers from Rwanda and neighbouring countries, will undergo a major redesign to ease congestion and meet international service standards.

    Plans include developing a modern bus terminal with enhanced commuter services, transforming the surrounding wetland into an urban park that integrates transit routes, landscaping, commercial facilities, and pedestrian pathways.

    In addition, Mpazi Park will be constructed as a mixed-use recreation and business zone featuring sports facilities, green spaces, and commercial amenities. New housing projects in Muhima are also planned to provide affordable urban accommodation for local residents, further supporting inclusive urban growth.

    Nyabugogo Station will be equipped to handle passengers efficiently and built to modern standards.

    Remera and Kimironko to strengthen sports and retail economy

    Remera, known for Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and several key institutions, is set to become Kigali’s primary sports, entertainment, and cultural hub. Investments will include new commercial developments, multi-storey parking solutions to reduce congestion around Gisimenti, and cultural centres, libraries, and event venues integrated with business facilities.

    Meanwhile, Kimironko Market, one of the city’s busiest traditional markets, will be upgraded alongside its local transport terminal to balance modern retail facilities with the preservation of traditional trading culture, ensuring that the market meets the demands of a growing urban population.

    Remera takes on a new look as Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and Petit Stade reach full capacity.

    Gahanga positioned as new business and innovation zone

    Gahanga, located in Kicukiro District and strategically positioned along the route to Bugesera International Airport, is planned as a major innovation and commercial zone to attract both domestic and foreign investment. The developments will include technology and innovation parks, green commercial centers connected through pedestrian networks, and new museums, arts centers, hotels, and leisure facilities.

    Mixed-use residential developments will be integrated with business and recreational services to create a cohesive urban environment. The nearby Gikondo Exhibition Zone will also be modernised to host large-scale international conferences and expos, complemented by hotels, business services, and green recreational areas.

    Kigali’s 2050 Master Plan reflects Rwanda’s broader strategy to develop a competitive city that supports business growth while maintaining environmental sustainability and social inclusiveness.

    With major investments in mobility, housing, commercial zones, and cultural infrastructure, Kigali is being positioned as a central economic hub for East Africa and a model for modern urban development across the continent.

    Kigali in 2050 will be magnificent.

    The master plan envisions that by 2050, the commercial areas of Kigali, including Muhima, Nyarugenge, and Kimicanga, will be fully transformed.

    This type of urban development is designed to support and enhance business in Kigali.

    In Gahanga, business, technology, residential development, and environmental conservation will be integrated.

    The Gahanga hub will feature a state-of-the-art library and an arts center.

    In Gikondo, the exhibition and trade fair area will be purposefully designed.

    In Nyarugenge, modern infrastructure will define the area’s design.

    An aerial view of the city center roundabout and its surrounding neighborhoods.

    Development has begun on the Nyabugogo wetland, which will be transformed into a picturesque visitor attraction.

    Muhima and the Nyabugogo wetland as envisioned in the master plan.

    The city center, Muhima, Kiyovu, and surrounding neighborhoods are laid out like this in the master plan.

    The Muhima hub will feature commercial buildings and a cultural zone.

    Nyabugogo Park will provide a serene space for rest and relaxation.

    Gisimenti as envisioned in 2050.

    The Kimironko hub will feature a modern market and bus terminal.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/kigali-s-2050-master-plan-positions-the-city-as-modern-african-economic-hub

  • U.S., Ukraine, Europe meet in Switzerland to discuss Ukraine peace plan #rwanda #RwOT

    According to media reports, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff attended the meeting.

    The Ukrainian delegation was led by Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office.

    Also, national security advisers from France, Germany and the United Kingdom, as well as representatives of the European Union, also took part in the meeting.

    Yermak said on social media platform X on Sunday that the Ukrainian delegation had begun its work in Geneva.

    He said the team held its first meeting with national security advisers from the United Kingdom, France and Germany and would next meet with the U.S. delegation, adding that they were “in a very constructive mood.”

    Yermak added that a series of meetings in various formats was planned for the day as the sides continue working together to achieve a lasting and just peace for Ukraine.

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also said on social media platform X on Sunday that he hoped the talks would be constructive and lead to a positive outcome.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R) speaks during a press briefing at the United States Mission to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva, Switzerland, Nov. 23, 2025. Representatives from the United States, Ukraine and European countries met in Geneva, Switzerland, on Sunday to discuss ways aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/u-s-ukraine-europe-meet-in-switzerland-to-discuss-ukraine-peace-plan

  • President Kagame holds talks with his counterpart of CAR, Touadéra #rwanda #RwOT

    According to Rwanda’s Office of the President, the two Heads of State discussed the existing cooperation, including Rwanda’s ongoing support through the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) troops serving under the existing bilateral security agreement as well as those serving in the United Nations Mission.

    Both leaders also exchanged on the opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation through collaboration in various sectors of mutual benefit for the people of the Central African Republic and Rwanda.

    President Touadéra arrived in Kigali on November 23, 2025, where he was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta, before meeting President Kagame later in the evening.

    Relations between Rwanda and the Central African Republic have grown significantly over the years, with security cooperation standing at the core of this partnership.

    Rwanda first deployed troops to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of efforts to restore stability following waves of conflict that began in 2012.

    Rwandan forces were initially deployed under the African Union mission, MISCA, before transitioning to the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, a few months later.

    Their responsibilities included protecting civilians, safeguarding UN equipment, and ensuring the security of the CAR Head of State and his family.

    In 2020, Rwanda sent additional troops under a bilateral agreement with the Central African Republic. Through the same agreement, Rwandan forces have been training CAR’s national army.

    In March 2025, the third cohort of 438 CAR soldiers trained by Rwandan troops completed their military courses, which included enemy detection, territorial defence, map reading, and field operations.

    Over nearly 11 years of cooperation, the partnership has expanded beyond security, with Rwandan peacekeepers also supporting community welfare initiatives, including providing medical services to local residents.

    In February 2025, Rwanda and the Central African Republic further deepened their cooperation by signing a security partnership agreement between their respective interior ministries.

    President Touadéra’s visit comes just days before the Central African Republic heads to presidential elections scheduled for December 2025.

    In July 2025, he announced that he would be seeking another term in office.

    President Paul Kagame has held talks with his Central African Republic (CAR) counterpart, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who is in Rwanda for a two-day working visit.

    President Kagame and his counterpart of CAR exchanged on the opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation through collaboration in various sectors of mutual benefit for the people of the Central African Republic and Rwanda.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-holds-talks-with-his-counterpart-of-car-touadera

  • Central African Republic president in Rwanda for two-day visit #rwanda #RwOT

    President Touadéra was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta. His visit underscores the strong partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in the areas of security and peacekeeping.

    Rwandan forces first deployed to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of peacekeeping efforts following civil unrest in 2012. Initially under the African Union mission MISCA, and later the United Nations mission MINUSCA, Rwandan troops have played a key role in protecting civilians, safeguarding UN facilities, and providing security for the Head of State and his family.

    In 2020, Rwanda reinforced its support through additional troop deployments and military training programs for the Central African Republic’s armed forces. The third cohort of 438 soldiers trained by Rwanda completed their courses in March 2025, gaining skills in enemy reconnaissance, tactical operations, and field exercises.

    Beyond security, Rwanda has contributed to improving the welfare of Central African citizens, with its forces supporting healthcare and other community services. In February 2025, both countries signed a security cooperation agreement to further strengthen bilateral ties.

    President Touadéra was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta.

    The CAR Head of State is in Rwanda for a two-day working visit.

    The visit underscores the strong partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in the areas of security and peacekeeping.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/central-african-republic-president-in-rwanda-for-two-day-visit

  • Avocado exports reach 4,200 tonnes as Rwanda earns Frw 125 billion from horticulture #rwanda #RwOT

    The latest results extend a consistent upward trend that has seen export earnings grow from $58 million in 2022/23 to $75 million in 2023/24, and now more than $86 million. Increased investment, growing farmer participation, and new markets have led to strong performances from avocados, macadamia, chili, and French beans.

    Speaking in an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), Jean Bosco Mulindi, Emerging Commodities Division Manager at NAEB, said the sector is now seeing the benefits of production that began several years ago.

    'We are now beginning to witness the impact of plantations that were established in recent years reaching maturity, and this is translating directly into higher export volumes and earnings,' he said.

    Mulindi highlighted chili as one of the strongest drivers of growth. In 2018/19, Rwanda exported 605 tonnes, earning under $1 million. Last year, that figure rose to 2,000 tonnes, generating $6 million.

    Chili peppers are grown by Gashora Farm PLC in Nyagatare District.

    Avocado output surges

    Avocado production is also expanding rapidly. A recent NAEB survey shows more than 550,000 avocado trees planted nationwide, with 88% aged between one and six years, meaning most are still maturing.

    Rwandan delegates, including NAEB and local exporters, showcase avocados and other horticultural products at the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Germany.

    In 2018/19, Rwanda exported fewer than 1,000 tonnes of avocados, earning slightly above $400,000. Last year, exports rose nearly tenfold to 4,200 tonnes, valued at more than $8 million.

    'We are seeing many farmers joining horticulture because the opportunities in international markets are clearer than ever,' Mulindi noted.

    Avocados are mainly exported to the Gulf, Europe, and neighboring countries, with a new market now opened in China.

    Mulindi said international demand now exceeds Rwanda’s current supply capacity. Fresh chili is primarily exported to European markets, including Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany, while dried chili is exported in large volumes to China and India.

    Avocados are largely exported to the Gulf region, which accounts for around 80% of the market, as well as Europe and neighbouring countries. Rwanda has also recently signed a bilateral agreement allowing avocado exports to China, opening another major destination.

    Rwandan delegates, including NAEB and local exporters, showcase avocados and other horticultural products at the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Germany.

    Macadamia exports are in high demand in China, Vietnam, and Japan, where Rwanda is still unable to meet market needs. More than 90% of Rwanda’s French beans are exported to Europe, with the remaining share going to regional and Gulf markets.

    Mulindi said the results show the sector is well-positioned for continued growth as more plantations reach full production and export promotion initiatives expand.

    Rwanda recently signed a bilateral agreement allowing avocado exports to China, opening another major destination.

    Rwanda participated in the Fruit Logistica expo in Berlin.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/avocado-exports-reach-4-200-tonnes-as-rwanda-earns-frw-125-billion-from

  • Floating solar, 560 jobs, 57% progress: Inside Nyabarongo II Hydropower project #rwanda #RwOT

    The project, currently 57% complete, has already created 560 jobs and plans to install floating solar panels, marking a milestone in the country’s push for renewable energy.

    Once operational, the dam will generate 43.5 megawatts of electricity and give rise to a 67-kilometre lake, the fourth-largest in Rwanda, stretching from Kamonyi and Gakenke to Muhanga, Ngororero, and Nyabihu.

    The lake will reach a depth of 59 metres and hold 803 million cubic metres of water, reshaping landscapes and opening new opportunities for irrigation, flood control, and water-based activities.

    The project is being constructed by the Chinese company Sinohydro Corporation and represents the first phase of the Nyabarongo II Multipurpose Development Project. Beyond power generation, it will support irrigation along the Nyabarongo, Akagera, and Akanyaru rivers, reduce flooding downstream, and improve access to clean water for surrounding communities.

    According to the Energy Development Corporation Ltd (EDCL), the dam’s powerhouse, where turbines will convert water into electricity, is 54.5% complete, while the water-retaining wall has reached 41%. The transmission lines connecting the dam to the national grid are 6.4% complete, and the outlet channel for excess water is 32.6% built.

    So far, $93 million has been spent, representing 43.7% of the $214 million budget, while Italian firm Studio Pietrangeli oversees construction supervision, having spent €2.8 million (56% of the €5.2 million planned).

    Mushuti Anicet, EDCL official overseeing the project, highlighted the technical challenge of converting river water into energy:

    'To generate hydropower, we rely on two things: sufficient water volume and the height from which it falls. The river was in a valley, so we built a wall to hold the water and allow it to rise to the height we need. It will eventually reach 59 metres; currently, it stands at 15 metres.'

    Originally, the project was designed to produce 37.5 MW, but an upgrade in 2018 increased its capacity to 43.5 MW, adding to Rwanda’s total hydropower capacity of 406.4 MW. The government aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2029, up from the current 86%.

    The floating solar component will generate 200 megawatts and store energy for use during periods without sunlight, making Nyabarongo II one of the first projects in Rwanda to combine hydropower and solar energy on such a large scale.

    As the dam rises and the lake begins to take shape, the project is already impacting local communities. Roads are being upgraded, water transport routes prepared, and employment opportunities expanded. Officials say these developments will create a ripple effect for irrigation, agriculture, and other water-based economic activities across the region.

    The Nyabarongo II Hydropower Project is one of the key initiatives driving the country’s push to boost electricity generation.

    Photo illustration of the new lake to be created by the Nyabarongo multipurpose dam.

    A long wall will be constructed in the blue-marked area to contain the water, creating a lake behind it.

    On the Gakenke District side, construction work has progressed considerably.

    The project is being constructed by the Chinese company Sinohydro Corporation.

    Construction of the powerhouse, which will house turbines to generate electricity from water, is well underway.

    The areas above and below the dam have been reinforced to ensure stability and prevent any structural failure.

    An outlet sluice will regulate water flow through the underground channel when required.

    Excavation of the underground water channel is complete.

    The project is 57% complete.

    The project, currently 57% complete, has already created 560 jobs.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/floating-solar-560-jobs-57-progress-inside-nyabarongo-ii-hydropower-project