The state-of-the-art facility, located in the Nyamyumba Sector of Rubavu District, was opened on Friday, December 6, 2024, during a ceremony graced by Rwanda's Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, alongside Joan Wiegman, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner.
The port is poised to revolutionize trade and connectivity, particularly between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Gasore hailed the port as a 'key milestone' in Rwanda's commitment to sustainable economic growth and regional integration. He emphasized that Rubavu Port would play a pivotal role in improving community livelihoods by boosting trade and creating job opportunities.
Rubavu Port boasts impressive capabilities, with a capacity to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually. The two-hectare facility includes cargo and passenger terminals, a wastewater treatment plant, a petrol station, and accommodations for staff.
Since its pilot phase began in June 2024, the port has been fully operational, with traders already benefiting from its modern infrastructure. The facility also provides significant employment opportunities for Rubavu residents, engaging cooperatives of porters to load and unload cargo.
Rubavu Port operates as a One-Stop Border Post, offering seamless services from agencies such as the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), Rwanda Revenue Authority, and Rwanda National Police Marine Unit. Beyond facilitating trade, it caters to tourists exploring the scenic attractions of Lake Kivu in Rwanda's Western Province.
The port is part of the broader National Strategic Transformation (NST1) plan, which includes the construction of three additional ports on Lake Kivuâ€"Rusizi, Karongi, and Nkora. Once completed, these ports are expected to further ease the transport of goods and passengers, solidifying Rwanda's position as a regional trade hub.
According to the National Institute of Statistics, the DRC is Rwanda's second-largest export destination, with $16.2 million worth of goods exported in June 2024 alone.
Traditionally reliant on land routes, the launch of Rubavu Port marks a significant shift toward utilizing Lake Kivu for maritime trade, unlocking new opportunities for regional economic integration and growth.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
