Rwanda Inaugurates 151 km of New Roads Worth Rwf 200 Billion to Boost Trade and Connectivity

Gicumbi, October 9, 2025 - Rwanda has officially inaugurated three newly completed asphalt roads spanning 151 kilometers, in a major infrastructure milestone aimed at enhancing trade, transport, and economic development across several districts. The projects, valued at over Rwf 200 billion, were launched during a ceremony held in Rukomo Sector, Gicumbi District.

The projects were financed through partnerships between the Government of Rwanda and several Arab development institutions, including the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID).

• Infrastructure Driving Growth

Speaking at the ceremony, Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure, said the new roads are already spurring growth in agriculture, trade, and livestock sectors.

“These roads have been in use for some time, but their official completion marks a turning point for regional development,” Uwihanganye said. “Infrastructure plays a key role in improving the economy and the livelihoods of people living along these routes.”

He also announced plans to install street lighting on the Nyagatare-Rukomo road, adding that the projects’ surplus budget had already funded lighting works along the 23-kilometer Rubengera-Gisiza section.

• Trade and Connectivity Benefits

Gasana Stephen, Mayor of Nyagatare District, highlighted the Rukomo-Nyagatare road as a “pillar of trade facilitation,” reducing travel time between Kigali and the northeastern regions.

“The road has transformed business connectivity in our area. Farmers and traders can now move their goods faster and more safely,” he said.

• International Partners Commend Rwanda’s Vision

Fahad Abdullah Aldossari, President of BADEA, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s transport sector, noting that out of $300 million in total funding to the country, $132 million has gone directly into road construction.

“We believe that investing in roads accelerates growth and connects communities,” Aldossari stated.

• Boost for Tourism and Regional Integration

Northern Province Governor Mugabowagahunde Maurice said the new roads will serve as “a backbone for tourism and commerce,” particularly in linking major agricultural and touristic hubs.

“Our administration is committed to building complementary infrastructure so that residents and businesses can fully benefit from these investments,” he said.

The inauguration underscores Rwanda’s broader push to modernize its transport network, improve regional integration, and facilitate cross-border trade - key pillars of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and Vision 2050.