Rwanda and Kenya have signed a new petroleum import agreement that reflects growing cooperation between African countries in advancing energy security, trade efficiency, and regional integration. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on June 29.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding, Rwanda will continue sourcing refined petroleum products independently while benefiting from Kenya’s well-developed infrastructure for transportation, storage, and distribution along the Northern Corridor.
The agreement is supported by implementation arrangements involving the Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC) and the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), ensuring smooth coordination in the movement of petroleum products between the two nations.
Through this partnership, Rwanda will gain improved access to key regional facilities, including the Port of Mombasa, storage terminals, and pipeline networks, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of fuel supply.
Officials from both countries highlighted that the deal will strengthen supply stability, reduce logistical challenges, and improve the overall performance of the petroleum supply chain.
The agreement is also seen as a strong example of African cooperation, promoting shared use of infrastructure and supporting deeper regional economic integration.
In addition, it aligns with Rwanda’s efforts to diversify import routes while ensuring a steady, reliable energy supply to support national development and industrial growth.
Implementation of the agreement will begin immediately through close collaboration between relevant institutions in both countries.
Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Tony Kajangwe, said the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening regional trade and building stronger economic ties across Africa.
“By optimizing the utilization of Kenya’s port and pipeline infrastructure, we are strengthening regional value chains, enhancing supply resilience, improving energy security, and advancing the broader objectives of regional economic integration.” He noted.
Kenya’s Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi described the agreement as a key milestone in regional integration, fully opening the Northern Corridor for Rwanda’s petroleum imports under government-to-government arrangements. He said Kenya’s pipeline network and the Port of Mombasa will serve as the main transit infrastructure, ensuring a structured and reliable system for the long-term movement of petroleum products to Rwanda.
He added that petroleum volumes transported to Rwanda are expected to increase significantly, with the first shipment under the new framework anticipated in September 2026.
This agreement reflects Africa’s growing cooperation in advancing energy security, trade facilitation, and regional integration. By leveraging shared infrastructure and strengthening cross-border partnerships, Rwanda and Kenya are demonstrating how African countries can collaboratively address common development challenges. The deal underscores a shared commitment to building a more connected, efficient, and self-reliant continent through practical cooperation and mutual economic support.
