Rusizi – June 9, 2025 – The Ruzizi III Regional Hydropower Project, a landmark $800 million initiative aimed at expanding energy access in Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is moving forward with renewed momentum. Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, confirmed the progress during a high-level site visit to the project area.

With a capacity of 206 megawatts (MW), Ruzizi III is set to supply sustainable electricity to over 300,000 residents, marking a transformative step toward regional energy integration, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The plant will be constructed along the Ruzizi River, a shared water resource, and stands as the first privately financed hydropower project in sub-Saharan Africa to harness a regional river basin for clean power generation.

"This project represents not only an energy solution but also a symbol of regional cooperation and long-term prosperity," said Minister Dr. Gasore. "We have addressed past delays, streamlined governance, and are now on track to begin construction in December 2025, with full works expected to commence by January 2026."

The site visit attracted senior international and national dignitaries, including: John Armiger, Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy in Rwanda, Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner to Rwanda, H.E. Belen Calvo, EU Ambassador to Rwanda, Governor Ntibitura of the Western Province and Mayor Sindayiheba Phanuel of Rusizi District.

Their presence highlighted the global commitment to delivering energy equity and sustainable infrastructure to the Great Lakes region.

Ruzizi III is being developed through a public-private partnership, managed by Ruzizi III Energy Limited. According to Gasana Leonard, a representative of the company, preliminary works have been completed and the tendering process for the construction contractor is underway.

The project also aligns with the energy strategy of SINELAC, which has operated Ruzizi II since 1989. Fidèle Ndayisaba, head of SINELAC, emphasized the urgency of the new facility:

“Ruzizi II can no longer meet the region's growing demand. Population growth and environmental degradation have diminished its capacity. Ruzizi III is the solution we need to power our future.”

Beyond electricity, the project is expected to deliver improved road infrastructure, boost local development, and ensure fair compensation for affected communities.

“The roads constructed for this project will bring long-term progress to the region,” added Minister Gasore.

The Ruzizi III project supports the vision of the Great Lakes Energy Organization (EGL) and will serve as a cornerstone for shared growth, peace, and energy resilience-benefiting more than 30 million people across the three countries.

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