Rubavu Port was inaugurated on December 6, 2025, with a total construction cost of $9.17 million. It is the largest port in Rwanda and will be connected to other ports, including the nearly completed Rusizi Port and future ports planned for Karongi and Nkora in Rutsiro District.
The port was built on a two-hectare area and has the capacity to accommodate two large boats, each measuring 60 meters in length and capable of carrying 500 tons of cargo. It also features 12 docking pillars for large cargo boats and a dedicated docking area for passenger boats.
The port facilitates the transportation of various goods, including cement produced in Rwanda, food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and other commodities.
Nzabonimpa Deogratias, the Vice Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of economic development, told IGIHE that Lake Kivu was like an untapped goldmine for the region.
"Rubavu Port, built on Lake Kivu, has enabled our residents to trade more efficiently with neighboring districts and the DRC. Currently, it handles 1,400 tons of goods daily, meaning it is operating at 70% of its full capacity," he stated.
He added that many traders are utilizing the port, and they expect to reach the full capacity of 2,000 tons per day soon.
Nzabonimpa sees the port as a major business opportunity for Rwanda and urged the private sector to maximize its potential. Currently, the port facilitates the movement of 40 trucks daily, each carrying 35 tons of goods, and employs 200 permanent workers engaged in loading and unloading activities through five cooperatives.
"This efficiency ensures that traders can quickly offload their goods and return for more shipments without delays, which is why they should take full advantage of this infrastructure," Nzabonimpa said.
He also encouraged investors to purchase modern boats for tourism purposes, allowing visitors to explore Rwanda's scenic beauty.
Discussing the port's economic impact on Rubavu District, Nzabonimpa highlighted the significant increase in tax revenue and the growth of private sector investments in Nyamyumba Sector, where the port is located.
He revealed plans to develop additional infrastructure, including a cross-border market near the port.
Dieudonné Mabete Niyonsaba, Chairman of the Private Sector Federation in Rubavu District, stated that the port has eased business operations by reducing transportation costs.
"Water transport is cheaper and can carry more goods, which has significantly lowered expenses for traders who previously relied on land transport. Rubavu District has become more accessible, as the port connects us to other areas along Lake Kivu and facilitates trade with the DRC," he said.
He emphasized that stakeholders are committed to fully utilizing the port's capacity and maximizing its economic benefits. He also encouraged users to improve their operations and cooperation to ensure mutual profitability.
Rubavu Port, located in Nyamyumba Sector on Lake Kivu, has a total capacity of handling 700,000 tons of goods and 2.7 million passengers annually.
The port comprises key facilities, including a cargo terminal, a tourism section, immigration offices, a police station, a vehicle repair area, and restaurants.
It also hosts services from the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), immigration and security authorities, and institutions typically found at land border crossings, such as MAGERWA and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).
Additionally, the port features designated areas for tourists visiting Rwanda's Western Province attractions, as well as storage facilities where traders can temporarily keep their goods after unloading.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rubavu-port-handles-1-400-tons-daily-operating-at-70-capacity
