Rubavu, 6th December 2024 – Rwanda celebrated a significant milestone in its infrastructure development journey with the inauguration of the newly constructed Rubavu Port, located on the scenic shores of Lake Kivu in the country’s Western Province. The state-of-the-art port was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, in the presence of H.E. Joan Wiegman, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and H.E. Alison Thorpe, the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Rwanda.

This $9 million project was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of the Government of Rwanda and its development partners. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) financed 50% of the project through TradeMark Africa (TMA), while the Kingdom of the Netherlands contributed 45% through Invest International. The Government of Rwanda funded the remaining 5%, showcasing its commitment to building resilient infrastructure to serve its citizens and foster regional integration.

Rubavu Port is the first of four ports planned along Lake Kivu as part of Rwanda's National Strategy for Transformation. The remaining ports—Rusizi, Nkora, and Karongi—are in various stages of progress, with Rusizi 51% complete and the others scheduled to begin construction in early 2025.

A Game-Changer for Maritime Transport and Regional Trade

Rubavu Port has been designed to transform Rwanda’s transportation landscape. With a cargo handling capacity of 700,000 tons per year and the ability to accommodate two ships of up to 60 meters each, it is set to significantly reduce transportation costs, ease cargo and passenger movement, and facilitate cross-border trade. The port also boasts a passenger capacity of 2.7 million per year, making it a critical hub for trade and connectivity in the Lake Kivu region.

A breath-taking aerial view of Rubavu Port, highlighting its strategic location and vibrant activity as a key hub for trade and connectivity in the region.

Speaking during the inauguration, Minister Dr. Jimmy Gasore highlighted the transformative impact of the port. “Rubavu Port is more than a facility—it is a gateway to prosperity, connectivity, and opportunities. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable economic growth, enhancing regional integration, and improving the livelihoods of our communities. It is a testament to what we can achieve when vision meets action and partnerships thrive.”

The Minister acknowledged the critical role played by development partners, government agencies, local authorities, and the hardworking individuals who brought the project to fruition. “Your unwavering support has been the catalyst for this achievement. Let us keep this collaborative spirit alive as we continue to build resilient infrastructure that drives our country’s development,” he said.

A group photo capturing distinguished officials during the inauguration ceremony at Rubavu, celebrating a milestone in regional development and collaboration

A Vision for Sustainable Growth and Connectivity

H.E. Joan Wiegman, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, applauded the project as a testament to effective partnerships. “The inauguration of this port embodies what intensive bilateral cooperation and shared ambitions can achieve. This infrastructure will play a pivotal role in contributing to Rwanda’s economic growth, job creation, and innovation while strengthening regional value chains.”

Similarly, H.E. Alison Thorpe, the UK High Commissioner, described the port as a lifeline for communities. “This port is more than a gateway to trade; it enhances access to markets, reduces transportation costs, and facilitates the flow of goods and services. For entrepreneurs, farmers, and traders, it represents hope and opportunity.”

Driving Economic Activities and Job Creation

The Director General of the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), Imena Munyampenda, emphasized that the port is a critical step in Rwanda's inland water transport strategy. “Port development is a prerequisite for the success of overall maritime transport initiatives. This port will pave the way for the operation of ferry services on Lake Kivu, reducing dependence on road transport, which currently incurs high costs for maintenance and logistics,” he noted.

Rubavu Port will ease the transportation of products from major factories in the Western Province, including BRALIRWA (a local brewery), CIMERWA (a cement producer), tea factories, and coffee companies. Additionally, the project has already created jobs for over 120 individuals organized into cooperatives, with plans for further job opportunities at the other planned ports.

Technology-Driven Operations

To ensure efficiency and sustainability, operations at Rubavu Port will be monitored through the Lake Kivu Navigability App, an innovative tool developed to track port activities and streamline operations. The app enhances service delivery and operational transparency, ensuring the port remains competitive and efficient.

A Future of Collaboration and Regional Integration

The Minister called upon stakeholders to take ownership of the facility to ensure its sustainability. “This port is not just an achievement for Rwanda; it is a regional asset. By enhancing connectivity with the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond, Rubavu Port will unlock new markets, attract investments, and strengthen regional value chains. It aligns seamlessly with our national development agenda and commitments under the East African Community (EAC).”

The inauguration concluded with a resounding message of collaboration and shared aspirations. As the Minister remarked, “This port is a testament to the power of partnerships. Let us commit to leveraging this facility for the benefit of our people, our region, and our future.”

Rubavu Port stands as a shining example of Rwanda’s dedication to sustainable development, regional cooperation, and inclusive growth—a cornerstone for economic transformation in the years to come.