The Rwandan government understands this too well, and its partnerships with the African Development Bank (AfDB) over the past six decades have continued to transform the country’s energy sector, putting Rwanda on the world map as one of the fastest-growing economies.

Since the inception of the regional multilateral development finance institution in 1964, Rwanda’s energy sector has benefited from AfDB financing for 16 energy projects. AfDB’s current project portfolio in Rwanda includes six projects, accounting for a $521.82 million investment in the country.

With such partnerships from AfDB and other development partners, Rwanda is well on its way to achieving universal electricity access by 2024, with over 74% of households connected as of 2023 up from 16.8% in 2012.

AfDB’s strategic investments have helped power the remotest villages, ensuring that homes, schools, and health centers benefit from reliable energy. The projects have also led to job creation, both during construction and in industries powered by the new energy infrastructure.

The energy sector is the driving force behind any nation's growth and development.

Scaling Up Electricity Access Program (SEAP)

The SEAP has been a cornerstone of Rwanda’s journey toward universal electricity access. Over 8,112 kilometers of distribution lines have been established, connecting homes, schools, and businesses to the national grid.

The program has also provided over 193,000 new on-grid connections, including 2,112 productive use connections for small businesses. The rural electrification rate has surged, lighting up homes and powering economic activities across the country.

For Jacqueline, a shop owner in Nyamasheke, electricity has changed her life. Before SEAP, her shop closed at sundown due to the lack of power. Today, she runs a freezer to sell cold drinks, generating enough income to send her children to school.

“Electricity has changed everything,” Jacqueline says, reflecting the life-changing impact of the AfDB’s investments.

The KivuWatt project has unlocked the vast methane gas reserves of Lake Kivu to generate electricity.

KivuWatt: Harnessing Methane for Clean Energy

AfDB’s support for the KivuWatt project has unlocked the vast methane gas reserves of Lake Kivu to generate electricity. With an initial output of 26 MW and plans to expand to 100 MW, KivuWatt provides reliable, climate-friendly power, reducing reliance on wood and diesel.

This energy has spurred business growth in western Rwanda, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.

Renewable Energy Investments

AfDB has been instrumental in driving Rwanda’s push for clean energy. Solar projects have brought light to remote communities, benefitting over 20% of households outside the grid.

Additionally, small hydropower plants have provided affordable, sustainable energy to thousands, contributing to a renewable energy mix that now accounts for 50% of Rwanda’s energy supply. These investments not only reduce environmental impact but also lower energy costs for businesses and households.

Emmanuel, a farmer in Bugesera, now irrigates his crops using solar-powered pumps. “I no longer rely on the rains, and my harvests have tripled,” he shares.

As the African Development Bank celebrates six decades of partnership with Rwanda, its contributions to the energy sector have proven essential in powering the nation’s growth. AfDB’s investments ensure that energy is not just a service, but a lifeline for development.

With energy at the core of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, AfDB remains a trusted partner, empowering the nation to build a sustainable, inclusive future.

The rural electrification rate has surged, lighting up homes and powering economic activities across the country.