Ministers responsible for energy from Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi gathered in Ngara, Tanzania, on November 15 for the 16th Council of Infrastructure Ministeial Meeting to evaluate the much-anticipated Rusumo Hydropower Project, an 80-megawatt venture set to boost energy generation in the three countries. The hydropower plant, whose construction is over 99 per cent, promises to generate 27 megawatts for each participating nation. Completion expected in early 2025. This output will provide electrify for over a million households across the three countries. “The machines are functioning well, delivering 27MW each. Only minor final touches remain, but the project is on track for completion by year-end, said Jean Bosco Muhire, an engineer at the plant. ALSO READ: Rusumo-hydro-project-to-help-cut-power-tariffs Acknowledging climate change's potential impact on Akagera River’s water levels, Muhire highlighted the project’s adaptive design. If water levels decline, he explained, one turbine of 27MW will be used until the levels rise again. Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, highlighted the broader benefits of the $340 million power plant. This is more than a hydropower initiative. Schools, clinics, and youth centers have been built alongside it. Receiving 27 MW daily into our grid will significantly advance Rwanda’s target of 100% household electricity connectivity, Gasore said. Gasore was joined by Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister, Dr. Doto Biteko, and Burundi's Minister of Water, Energy, and Mines, Ibrahim Uwizeye. The Rusumo project goes beyond electricity generation; it’s a testament to regional unity, according to officials. There will be transmission lines for electricity, within 94km from Rusumo to Nyakanazi (Tanzania), 161km to Kigali, and 194km to Burundi. ALSO READ: Govt-confident-of-meeting-electricity-targets Construction of the multinational Rusumo hydroelectric power plant is financed by the World Bank. Transmission lines to connect to the national grid in the three countries are financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) to the tune of $121 million. The project will also supply electricity to the airport in Bugesera, which still under construction. Beyond energy, it has facilitated feeder roads, water pipelines, and community infrastructure. This project showcases what can be achieved through collaboration. The benefits extend far beyond electricity, uplifting lives and economies, said the Tanzanian minister. On the Rwandan side, the project includes the construction of a model village for some 80 households relocated from the project's surroundings, the rehabilitation of 30km of feeder roads in Kirehe District, the construction of 28.7km of roads in Ngoma District, a water pipeline to supply over 10,000 people in Gatonde-Gahima cells, 33km of Gituku-Murama water supply system, construction of 9.54km of Kigabiro-Rurenge-Gatore feeder road, among other projects.. According to officials, this project will provide more electricity to growing town centers while ensuring that environmental aspects are well managed and benefits of shared power are produced. The project is expected to facilitate increased economic activities, private sector development, and investments in social infrastructure and services through improved access to electricity.
