Rwanda and Kenya Strengthen Strategic Partnership to Enhance Petroleum Supply Security

The Government of the Republic of Rwanda and the Government of the Republic of Kenya today, 29 June 2026, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the importation of refined petroleum products through the Northern Corridor. Under the agreement, Rwanda will source its bulk petroleum products independently and utilize Kenya's petroleum infrastructure for their transportation and storage.

The signing was accompanied by two implementing agreements: the Tripartite Agreement (TPA) among the Government of Rwanda, the Government of Kenya, and Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC); and the Transport and Storage Agreement (TSA) between Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC) and Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC).

These agreements mark a significant milestone in regional cooperation and energy security, establishing a structured and reliable framework for the supply, transportation, storage, and evacuation of petroleum products through Kenya's petroleum infrastructure.

Under the partnership, Rwanda will benefit from improved access to Kenya's petroleum logistics system including import coordination, strategic storage, and pipeline infrastructure thereby enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and resilience of the country's petroleum supply chain.

The agreements are expected to deliver a number of strategic benefits, including:

• Enhanced security and continuity of petroleum supply;

• Greater resilience against regional and global supply disruptions;

• Reduced logistical bottlenecks and improved predictability of fuel imports;

• Increased operational efficiency and competitiveness across the petroleum supply chain; and

• Stronger regional integration and economic cooperation between Rwanda and Kenya.

The partnership also supports Rwanda's broader strategy of diversifying import routes, strengthening fuel security, and ensuring the sustainable availability of petroleum products to underpin economic growth and industrial development.

Implementation will commence immediately through the designated institutions, including RNEC and KPC, in collaboration with the relevant government agencies of both countries.

The Government of Rwanda remains committed to maintaining a secure, reliable, and efficient petroleum supply system that supports national development and advances regional cooperation for shared prosperity.