The construction of the Nyabarongo II hydroelectric power plant, a key project in Rwanda’s energy expansion, is now nearly 40% complete, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure. Once finished, the plant is expected to generate 43.5 megawatts of electricity, a significant boost to the country’s power supply.
Olivier Kabera, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure, emphasized that Nyabarongo II, along with other energy initiatives, will play a crucial role in achieving Rwanda’s goal of providing 100% electricity access to all Rwandans within the next five years.
Located in a scenic valley between the hills of Gakenke, Rulindo, and Kamonyi districts along Nyabarongo River, the plant is being developed to help meet Rwanda’s growing energy demands. Uwera Jane, Project Manager at the Rwanda Energy Development Corporation (EDCL), confirmed that construction is progressing rapidly, with efforts in place to speed up the process.
The project has already created significant employment opportunities for local residents, with more than 320 workers currently engaged in daily operations. In addition to providing jobs, the construction involves several critical components, including the installation of turbines that will generate electricity once completed.
The Nyabarongo II power plant, which began construction in 2022, is expected to be fully operational by 2026. The total cost of the project is estimated at over 214 million US dollars, or approximately 220 billion Rwandan francs.
