The plant based at Musanze Industrial Park in Kimonyi Sector, was built by Indian investors at a cost of $20 million (Rwf29 billion) and is expected to use 40 megawatts of electricity per day.

Unlike plants that recycle scrap metal into new steel products, A1 Iron & Steel Rwanda Ltd will process locally sourced iron-bearing raw materials, particularly those extracted from mines in Rulindo District.

The minerals will first be smelted into steel, which will then be used to manufacture a range of products.

The plant is expected to produce more than 10 types of steel products, including nails, steel wires, steel pipes, reinforcing bars and other products mainly used in construction.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Nsengiyumva said the plant will increase the volume of products manufactured locally while adding value to available resources.

"For years our industrial sector has relied heavily on imported steel. In 2025 alone, Rwanda imported more than US$150 million worth of steel products and we expect that our growing economy will continue to drive rising demand for steel as we build our infrastructure, our cities and our businesses. But importantly, A1 Iron and Steel changes that equation," he said.

"By processing locally sourced iron ore into finished steel products here in Rwanda, this plant helps us move up the value chain and capture more of the value our own economic development creates. This is an achievement worth celebrating," the premier added.

The Premier added that the plant will position Rwanda among countries that export steel products, particularly within the region.

Opportunities for Rwandans

Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde said the plant demonstrates investors’ confidence in Rwanda and will contribute to the province’s development, particularly in infrastructure and industrialisation.

The plant currently employs around 500 people, the majority of whom are Rwandans, and the number is expected to increase to 1,000.

It is also expected to create opportunities for about 2,500 people working in activities outside the plant but linked to its operations.

Governor Mugabowagahunde assured the investors that the raw materials required by the plant are available in sufficient quantities in Northern Province, ensuring that its operations will not be disrupted by shortages.

A1 Iron & Steel Ltd Chief Executive Officer Himanshu Tiwari said the completion of the plant marks an important milestone and opens a new chapter in Rwanda’s industrial development.

He explained the plant will focus on using raw materials available in Rwanda to produce essential construction materials, enabling it to meet domestic demand while also exporting and generating more revenue for Rwanda.

Tiwari thanked the Rwandan Government for its clear vision for industrial development and for supporting and facilitating investors seeking to invest in Rwanda.