Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva announced the development on July 9, 2026, while presenting to a joint session of Parliament the government's measures to enhance Rwanda's economic resilience and safeguard citizens' welfare against both domestic and external shocks.

He said the shipment, which is expected to arrive at Tanzania's Port of Tanga by the end of July, is part of a new government-led fuel procurement strategy implemented through the Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC) in partnership with oil-producing and refining countries.

"The government has introduced a centralized system for importing refined petroleum products through RNEC to make fuel imports more efficient and achieve sustainable reductions in fuel prices," Dr. Nsengiyumva told lawmakers.

He added that the first vessel carrying 40,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products is expected to dock at the Port of Tanga by the end of July, with Rwanda planning to receive similar shipments every month thereafter.

"These regular shipments will help ensure lower and more stable fuel prices over the long term," he said.

The initiative follows a series of bilateral agreements aimed at diversifying Rwanda's fuel supply routes and strengthening energy security.

On June 29, 2026, Rwanda signed a government-to-government agreement with Kenya to facilitate the importation of petroleum products through the Port of Mombasa. The agreement grants Rwanda access to Kenya's fuel storage facilities, transport infrastructure and pipeline network.

The arrangement is expected to improve the reliability of fuel supplies, reduce logistical bottlenecks and allow for more predictable import planning.

Rwanda also signed a separate agreement with Tanzania to import petrol and diesel through the Port of Tanga. The deal was concluded between RNEC and Gulf Bulk Petroleum Tanzania Limited (GBP).

The government expects the new procurement arrangements to reduce transport costs, improve fuel availability and shield the domestic market from price volatility.

Under the latest fuel price review announced on June 5, 2026, a litre of petrol is retailing at Rwf 2,938, while diesel is priced at Rwf 2,927 per litre.