Russia and Rwanda have signed a roadmap agreement to develop a small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power project, marking a major step in bilateral cooperation on nuclear energy.
The agreement was signed in Moscow after the first meeting of the Russia–Rwanda Joint Coordinating Committee on nuclear cooperation. The discussions focused on Rwanda’s planned nuclear power programme, including infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, workforce training, and the establishment of a nuclear science and technology centre.
Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom said the partnership is shifting from general agreements to practical implementation.
Rosatom First Deputy Director Kirill Komarov said the cooperation now covers “concrete tracks,” including training national experts, building infrastructure, and advancing small modular reactor projects.
On Rwanda’s side, Chairman of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board Dr. Lassina Zerbo said the country aims to include nuclear power in its energy mix in the early 2030s to help meet rising electricity demand. He has previously described SMRs as a more affordable and flexible option compared to traditional large-scale nuclear plants.
The agreement builds on earlier cooperation between the two countries, which began with an intergovernmental nuclear energy deal in 2018. In 2019, both sides agreed to establish a nuclear science and technology centre in Rwanda, which is expected to include a 10-megawatt research reactor and supporting laboratories.
The roadmap strengthens long-term cooperation as Rwanda advances its broader energy strategy and moves closer to developing nuclear energy capacity, reflecting growing momentum in Africa’s energy development agenda.
