Rwanda has taken a significant leap in trade infrastructure with the unveiling of Rubavu Port, the country’s largest inland port. Officially launched in December last year, this state-of-the-art facility is poised to transform regional commerce, providing a strategic gateway for cross-border trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and beyond.
Located in Nyamyumba Sector, Western Province, Rubavu Port spans two hectares along the shores of Lake Kivu. The facility features two specialized terminals—one for cargo and another for passengers—designed to enhance trade efficiency and affordability. With a handling capacity of 700,000 tonnes of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually, the port is set to play a pivotal role in regional logistics.
Equipped to accommodate two cargo vessels, each with a capacity of 500 deadweight tonnage (DWT), the port provides a cost-effective alternative to road transport. Each vessel can transport up to 35 containers, significantly reducing logistical costs and delays.
Jean Marie Ndizeye, Inland Water Transport Senior Engineer at the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), underscores the port’s economic potential. “Following a successful pilot phase, we are now ready to offer businesses a seamless, cost-efficient trade corridor.”
The development of Rubavu Port was made possible through financial collaboration between the Rwandan government, Netherlands-based Invest International, and the UK government via TradeMark Africa. The cargo terminal is equipped with essential infrastructure, including staff accommodations, a petrol station, a wastewater treatment plant, and a modern docking quay. The passenger terminal features administrative offices and advanced security checkpoints, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
“This port is a game-changer,” Ndizeye affirms. “It lowers transportation costs, enhances efficiency, and boosts tourism and investment in the Lake Kivu corridor.”
Rubavu Port is expected to generate significant economic opportunities for local communities. Four cooperatives have been established to manage loading and unloading activities, employing between 80 and 150 workers daily, with job opportunities set to increase as operations expand.
The port will facilitate the smooth movement of essential goods such as cement, bottled beverages, potatoes, and dairy products between Rwanda and the DRC. Remy Ugirashebuja, Chairman of COTRAMAKI, an association of vessel owners on Lake Kivu, highlights the port’s impact: “Previously, our cooperative faced transport delays and security risks. Now, with this port, we can move up to 60 truckloads of goods daily, a significant boost to regional trade.”
Rubavu Port now cements Rwanda’s position as a key player in regional trade. With an average of 100 containers passing through Rubavu and Rusizi districts daily en route to Bukavu in the DRC, the facility offers a reliable alternative to traditional road transport. The port’s operations will streamline logistics, reduce costs, and enhance the predictability of cross-border trade.
Ugirashebuja emphasizes the importance of maintaining competitive pricing structures. “Traders have historically faced high costs and delays due to bureaucratic border procedures. Rubavu Port simplifies trade, creating a more efficient and cost-effective business environment.”
Rubavu Port marks the beginning of a broader initiative to develop inland water transport along Lake Kivu. The Rwandan government is actively pursuing additional ports in Rusizi, Karongi, and Nkora, with feasibility studies underway for passenger terminals in Kirambo, Nyamirundi, Mugonero, and Nkombo.
Rosine Uwamariya, Country Director at TradeMark Africa, highlights the strategic significance of these investments: “Rubavu and Rusizi districts account for approximately 70% of Rwanda’s cross-border trade. The launch of Rubavu Port will significantly reduce trade costs and stimulate economic growth. Our studies suggest transport costs, previously at $28.40 per metric tonne in 2017, could drop to $12.17 with full operational capacity.”
Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore underscores the port’s role in Rwanda’s economic development strategy. “Rubavu Port is more than just an infrastructure project—it is a gateway to shared prosperity. This milestone reflects Rwanda’s commitment to regional integration and economic transformation.”
Rubavu Port is embracing digital innovation to enhance operational efficiency. The introduction of the Lake Kivu Navigability App will enable real-time monitoring of port activities, ensuring greater transparency and service delivery.
The Chairman of the Rwanda Freight Forwarders Association (RWAFFA), Mr. David Rwigema, is optimistic that the port will enhance efficiency and increase the volume of cargo handled in Rwanda, while also creating new business opportunities for freight forwarders in the country. “This port is a game-changer for Rwanda’s logistics sector. It will streamline cargo movement, reduce transit times, and open up new avenues for trade and investment,” he stated.
As Rubavu Port becomes fully operational, it stands as a testament to Rwanda’s economic ambitions—a hub for trade, job creation, and sustainable growth. With continued investment, the port will reinforce Rwanda’s position as a key regional trade powerhouse, driving economic prosperity for years to come.
This article was published by Githua Kihara, an editorial consultant for FEAFFA’s Freight Logistics Magazine. For any inquiries, please contact us via email at editorial@feaffa.com or freightlogistics@feaffa.com, or reach out to Andrew Onionga directly at onionga@feaffa.com / +254733780240.
