Rwanda has signed a loan agreement worth USD 25 million with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) to expand the water transmission and distribution systems at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant. The agreement, signed by His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and His Excellency John Mirenge, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the UAE, aims to strengthen the country’s water security and contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6, which focuses on access to clean and sustainable water.
The project is designed to enhance Rwanda’s water infrastructure by improving the efficiency of its water system and integrating advanced technologies. The expansion of the Karenge Water Treatment Plant’s transmission and distribution systems will provide reliable and sustainable water supplies to key areas, including the capital city of Kigali.
H.E. Al Suwaidi emphasized ADFD’s commitment to financing projects that promote economic and social progress. “This agreement reflects ADFD’s commitment to financing infrastructure projects that contribute to the development of key sectors vital to Rwanda’s growth,” he said.
Ambassador Mirenge expressed Rwanda’s appreciation for the partnership with ADFD, noting that the project is crucial for achieving the country’s national objectives of providing clean water to all citizens and developing robust water infrastructure. “This project is critical in ensuring universal access to clean water and elevating the standard of living for Rwandans,” he said.
The loan will fund the construction of a new water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic meters, along with the expansion of transmission and distribution networks across the city. The initiative is expected to meet the growing demand for water in Kigali and surrounding areas, while also creating jobs and improving water delivery services.
This loan agreement marks a significant step in Rwanda’s broader development strategy to ensure self-sufficiency in water supply and highlights the UAE’s leadership in supporting sustainable infrastructure projects globally.