Ambassador Nzabamwita Highlights Rwanda’s Energy Transformation, Calls for Stronger Cooperation with Russia

Moscow, Russia - Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia, Joseph Nzabamwita, has highlighted Rwanda’s remarkable progress in expanding energy access and urged deeper cooperation between Rwanda and Russia in the energy sector.

Speaking in an interview with Maxim Zakharov during Russian Energy Week, Ambassador Nzabamwita reflected on Rwanda’s transformation over the past decade and its ambitions for sustainable energy development.

“Rwanda went from having 6% of its population with access to electricity in 2009 to 84.6% today,” he said. “You see, from 6% to 84.6% - a lot of work has been done, but we are not where we want to be.”

Nzabamwita emphasized that Rwanda’s progress is a source of national pride, reflecting years of investment in infrastructure, innovation, and renewable energy. Under Vision 2050, the country aims to generate 50% of its electricity from renewable sources, which he noted are now the most cost-effective and sustainable energy options available.

He said Rwanda’s strategy includes mobilizing citizens to adopt renewable energy technologies and strengthening international partnerships to improve efficiency and diversify sources.

Rwanda and Russia signed a nuclear energy cooperation agreement in 2018, and Nzabamwita expressed hope that such collaboration will continue to expand. “Rwanda can learn a lot from Russia because it has been a country that has been producing energy for many years, and Rwanda needs to know how to find the energy it needs as a developing country,” he said.

Beyond energy, the ambassador pointed to growing cooperation between the two countries in education and cultural exchange. He noted that more Rwandan students are pursuing studies in Russia, while Russian students and scholars have increasingly engaged in academic programs and study visits to Rwanda.

“There are many things that connect Rwanda and Russia,” Nzabamwita said. “Some universities, such as St. Petersburg State University, have even introduced courses in Kinyarwanda and Swahili, reflecting the deepening ties between our peoples.”

The ambassador concluded by reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that promote innovation, sustainability, and mutual growth across key sectors, including energy and education.