20
Jul

217,560 households in Eastern Province are going to be connected to electricity as the Government of Rwanda continues intensive works under the Rwanda Universal Energy Access Program (RUEAP), set for completion by 2029. This transformative initiative aims to extend electricity access to areas that have long remained off-grid, improving lives and accelerating development in underserved communities.

The electrification works, already underway, involve the construction of 1,237.46 kilometers of medium-voltage lines and 3,311 kilometers of low-voltage lines, alongside the installation of 923 new transformers. These efforts will bridge the energy gap in rural areas, ensuring citizens can access reliable electricity for the first time.

Funded by the Government of Rwanda in partnership with the World Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and the European Investment Bank (EIB), the project is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s national strategy to achieve universal electricity access.

Speaking on the project’s impact, Muhire Jean Paul, the Hub Manager for Eastern Province, stated, “Electricity is not just light; it’s the foundation for development. This project is changing the lives of people by powering irrigation systems, as it has shown its impact in the Nasho project. It will support local businesses and enable growth in economic zones. It’s a big step forward for our communities.”

The project is already bringing hope to residents like Christophe Rwisumbura from Kirehe District, who shared the community’s excitement:

“Many people in our area have been waiting for electricity for years, surviving on firewood and candles. Now that it’s finally coming, it brings hope for better education for our children, safer homes, and the opportunity to start small businesses and now in Kirehe we have a cooperative of farmers who do smart irrigation based on electiricty.”

As new substations rise and electric lines extend across districts such as Nyagatare, Gatsibo, Ngoma, Bugesera ,Kayonza, Rwamagana and Kirehe, the benefits are expected to be felt in education, healthcare, agriculture, and commerce.

The ongoing electrification of unserved areas in Eastern Province is not only a matter of infrastructure, it’s a gateway to employment opportunities, socio-economic empowerment, and dignity for thousands of Rwandan citizens.