The People’s Republic of China has agreed to boost its support to Rwanda’s energy sector through the Hangzhou Regional Centre for Small Hydropower (HRC). 

Officiating at a closing ceremony of a China-sponsored training, Li Yaohong, the economic and commercial counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Kigali, said China will continue to contribute to developing energy sector in Rwanda.

"Hydropower plays an important role in China’s economy; we hope our experience would help Rwanda,” he said.At least 25 engineers from Rwanda Energy Group participated in the training that focused on hydropower technology.

The three-week training was organised by Rwanda Energy Group in partnership with the Hangzhou Regional Centre and the Chinese ministry of commerce.

Trainees acquired skills in hydropower and rural electrification.

Emmanuel Kamanzi, the managing director of the Energy Development Corporation Limited (EDCL ltd), said the training was a golden opportunity for them.

He thanked the Chinese government for its support.

"We used to send few people to foreign countries for such trainings since 2001 and it was costly. With the help of Chinese government, we increased the number of trainees. This training has been much more beneficial. The knowledge acquired from it will help us develop the energy sector,” he said.

Emmanuel Kirenga, speaking on behalf of the participants, expressed gratitude to trainers.

He said the training will enable them to deliver better.

"There are many things we have been doing using inadequate knowledge. This training is an added advantage.

Analysis of hydropower projects and suitable identification of sites are among the new elements we have aquired,” he said.

During the closing ceremony, Energy Development Corporation, an organ that works under the umbrella of REG, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Hangzhou Regional Centre for further cooperation in the energy sector.

Dr Xu Jincai, the deputy director of HRC, said more trainings would be organised.

"We want to enhance our cooperation with EDCL; that is why we signed an MoU to cater for more technical courses. Rwanda has many energy resources. In the future, we can have more cooperation and give more support,” he said.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw