On 21 November 2025, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, Prime Minister of Rwanda, visited the Nyabarongo II Hydropower Project located on the Nyabarongo River in the Kamonyi-Gakenke region. The visit focused on assessing the project’s progress and its potential impact on surrounding communities.
Accompanied by senior government officials, the Prime Minister toured the site’s facilities, including the dam and the power plant. The 43.5-megawatt hydropower project is being developed by the Rwanda Energy Group (REG) and aims to generate clean energy while providing irrigation support for about 20,000 hectares of land.
During the inspection, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of sustainable development, stressing that economic growth must go hand-in-hand with environmental protection. He urged project officials to ensure minimal environmental impact while maximising benefits for local residents.
Prime Minister calls for a sustainable approach during his visit to the Nyabarongo II project site.
The Nyabarongo II scheme aligns with Rwanda’s broader efforts to boost renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. State data show that the project also includes a substation and a 19.2 km, 110 kV transmission line that will connect to the national grid.
At the same time, authorities acknowledge emerging concerns over environmental risks linked to major infrastructure works, including potential soil erosion and water quality issues tied to upstream mining and land clearing. Project managers say these issues are being actively addressed through mitigation plans and close monitoring.
The Prime Minister’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to driving socio-economic transformation through strategic infrastructure investments.
“This project is a significant investment in Rwanda’s energy future. Its completion will mark a major step toward meeting our energy goals and improving citizens’ lives,” a government statement noted.
Once the facility becomes operational, it is expected to contribute significantly to the national grid and bolster agricultural productivity through irrigation support, thereby generating jobs and raising local living standards. The timeline for completion remains set for late 2025, in line with the contractor’s schedule.
Construction continues on the Nyabarongo II hydropower plant, which will generate 43.5 megawatts of electricity.
Author: Elias Habyarimana