The nationwide electrification is part of initiatives to accelerate the economic growth of the Rwandan people and the country as a whole. Under the seven-year plan, which is set to conclude in July 2024, the goal is to achieve 100% electrification in all households.

The Energy Development Corporation Limited (EDCL) has announced that over the past three years, the Rwandan Government has invested 1.2 billion US dollars in electricity distribution projects, aiming to reach 900,000 households across the country. with numerous programs underway in different districts to extend service to those still without.

As he featured in a talk show dubbed "Kubaza Bitera Kumenya" on March 3, 2024, EDCL’s Managing Director, Felix Gakuba, stated that plans are in place at all administrative levels, from the village to the district, to ensure that electricity reaches every citizen soon.

Gakuba emphasized that achieving full electrification is feasible, considering the substantial progress made compared to the remaining tasks. He noted that with the strategies in place and the funds secured, it’s only a matter of time before the remaining households are electrified, especially as no sector lacks an electrification project.

In areas without access to the main grid, solar energy is utilized, with the remaining distances to the existing networks often not exceeding two kilometers. This small gap provides hope that the electrification of all Rwandan households is imminent, supported by the government’s significant investment.

The Rwanda Energy Group (REG) reported that as of January 2024, 21% of electrified households use solar energy, while 55% are connected to the main grid.

The Acting Director General for Energy at MININFRA, Jean Bosco Mugiraneza, announced forthcoming agreements with the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, totaling 400 million dollars, to further electrification efforts.

Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, the Mayor of Nyaruguru District, highlighted the positive impact of electrification on local development, including extended working hours, improved hygiene and security, and the growth of local industries.

By 2023, REG’s electricity generation capacity reached 383.4 megawatts, up from 276 megawatts in 2022. The financial year ending in June 2023 saw 259,068 households electrified, bringing the total to 2,538,449 across Rwanda.

The 2023/2024 budget for nationwide electrification is set at 193 billion Rwandan Francs, including a 74.3 billion Francs project in collaboration with the World Bank, a 25.1 billion Francs project with the African Development Bank, and an 18.5 billion Francs government program (EARP), along with the construction of the Nyabarongo II Hydropower plant, expected to produce 43.5 megawatts, with a budget of 10.1 billion Francs for the year.

The Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) indicates that 76% of households currently have access to electricity.