Energy Partnership Between Rwanda and Tanzania Advances Regional Integration Agenda

The Republic of Rwanda and the United Republic of Tanzania have signed an Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy sector development.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Tuesday, 18 May 2026, during the second edition of the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA), convened in Rwanda. The Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU) reflects the shared commitment of both countries to deepen collaboration in strategic areas of the energy sector, including power infrastructure development, renewable energy, institutional capacity building, and cross-border energy cooperation.

Speaking following the signing ceremony, the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy GASORE, described the agreement as a significant milestone in the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and Tanzania.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the longstanding friendship and cooperation between our two countries. The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing regional integration through strategic cooperation in the energy sector,” he stated.

Dr. Gasore expressed appreciation to the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania for the strong collaboration and constructive engagement that characterized the discussions leading to the signing of the agreement.

He noted that the MoU comes at a critical time when countries across the region are prioritizing sustainable energy development as a key driver for economic growth, industrialization, and social transformation.

“Energy is the backbone of development. It powers industries, supports businesses, enables digital transformation, improves social services, and enhances the quality of life of our citizens,” he emphasized.

The cooperation framework signed by both countries establishes a strategic platform to deepen collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including power trade, energy infrastructure development, technical cooperation, capacity building, and investment promotion within the energy sector.

The Minister further highlighted the importance of enhanced regional power connectivity and energy security, noting that strengthened cooperation between Rwanda and Tanzania will contribute not only to the development of the two countries’ national energy sectors, but also to broader regional integration efforts under the East African Community and the African Union Agenda 2063.

Dr. GASORE commended the technical teams from both countries for their professionalism and dedication throughout the negotiation and finalization process, stressing that the successful conclusion of the MoU reflects the strong political will and mutual trust existing between the two governments.

As both countries move toward implementation, Rwanda reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Tanzania to operationalize the agreement and explore additional opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector and beyond.

The signing of the IGMOU further reinforces Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships that support sustainable energy development, economic transformation, and regional integration across Africa.