The AfDB confirmed its role as administrator of a $100 million loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and as the coordinating institution for the initiative. The decision formalises the co‑financing arrangement, bringing the programme’s total value to $300 million.
The addendum, approved on February 5, builds on the Bank’s earlier $200 million loan endorsed in July 2025. Under the shared results framework, funds will be disbursed once independently verified targets are met, supporting more streamlined delivery and improved accountability.
The programme aims to expand access to reliable electricity and promote clean energy solutions nationwide. More than 200 000 new customers are expected to be connected to the national grid, while around 50 000 low‑income households will receive solar home systems. In addition, over 100 000 clean cooking technologies, including biomass stoves and modern energy‑efficient systems, will be distributed to households and institutions such as schools.
Plans also include installing 2 000 solar water heaters for homes and small businesses and delivering more reliable power to about 850 industrial and commercial clients.
The project is expected to boost local economies, allowing small enterprises to extend operating hours and improving neighbourhood safety through enhanced street lighting. The introduction of cleaner cooking solutions is expected to reduce indoor air pollution, improve public health and ease fuel costs, particularly for women and children.
Over time, improved electricity reliability is projected to stimulate productivity and support Rwanda’s broader social and economic development.
At least 6 000 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created, with a particular emphasis on opportunities for youth‑led small and medium‑sized enterprises working in on‑grid, off‑grid and productive‑use energy solutions.
AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda Aissa Toure Sarr welcomed the approval, saying the partnership illustrates how coordinated investment can accelerate Rwanda’s transition to clean, reliable energy and strengthen long‑term climate resilience.
The programme aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 plan, which targets universal access to modern and sustainable energy services by 2035.
–AfDB/ChannelAfrica–
