In a significant development for Rwanda’s economy, the country’s largest port is set to open in December this year, in expectation of boosting tourism and cross-border trade between Rwanda and DR Congo upon completion.
The Rubavu port will provide a more efficient and reliable mode of transportation for imports and exports. The port’s opening is expected to reduce the congestion at existing ports and promote economic growth in the region.
According to the Acting Mayor of Rubavu district, Déogratias Nzabonimpa, “a provisional handover is scheduled for November 30.”
“The port is at 96 percent; it’s almost completed despite some ongoing fishing work. It will be handed over by this month, and the first ship, if available, will be allowed to access it by December 1,” Nzabonimpa added.
Located in Rubavu District at Lake Kivu, and on an area spanning 2 hectares, the port “will reduce costs of trade flows along Lake Kivu” as well as bolster the region as a tourism destination.
“It is interesting to the community around here and the whole district at large. I see the port as a game changer that is going to increase the movement of people. We will be able to accommodate more guests and receive more clients, which is good news,” Trésor Hategekimana, who works at Paradis Malahide Resort, said.
. Located in Rubavu District at Lake Kivu, and on an area spanning 2 hectares, the port “will reduce costs of trade flows along Lake Kivu” as well as bolster the region as a tourism destination. Rubavu port construction stands at 96 per cent
“I transport cement from here to Goma [in DR Congo] and the current port is too small to accommodate all the boats navigating Lake Kivu. But with this new and bigger port, business is going to become easier,” Elisha Mporanyi, a Goma resident, told the New Times while touring the site.
According to Société centrale pour l’équipement du Territoire (SCET-Tunisie), the company overseeing the construction of the project, the facility is divided into two main parts: a cargo terminal and a passenger terminal designated for both business and tourism sectors.
Developed by the government of Rwanda through the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) with the support of TradeMark Africa and Invest International, the port can handle 1.4 million passengers annually. Upon completion, it will cost $7.8 million.
A newly constructed gas station that is one of the key facilities of Cargo terminal
The Rubavu port is comprised of two main sections: a cargo terminal and a passenger terminal.
The new port is expected to increase connectivity between districts along the Lake Kivu shores as well as boost cross-border trade between Rwanda and DR Congo
A two-level building which will include main offices, security check and restaurant, is one of different facilities under construction on the shores of Lake Kivu in Nyamyumba Sector in Rubavu
