Rwanda is set to receive its first shipment of petroleum products, with a vessel carrying 40,000 tonnes expected to arrive at the Port of Tanga in Tanzania by the end of July 2026, as part of a new government strategy aimed at improving fuel supply and reducing price fluctuations.
Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva announced the development while presenting the government’s achievements and plans before both chambers of Parliament, highlighting measures aimed at strengthening Rwanda’s economy and addressing domestic and external challenges.
He said the new system of bulk petroleum imports, coordinated through the Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC) in partnership with oil-producing and refining countries, is designed to lower costs and ensure long-term stability in fuel prices.
“The first vessel carrying 40,000 tonnes is expected to arrive at the Port of Tanga by the end of July 2026, and from then on, we will receive a vessel every month. This will help us secure lower and more stable prices over the long term,” Prime Minister Nsengiyumva said.
The move follows agreements Rwanda signed with Kenya to facilitate petroleum imports through the Port of Mombasa, including access to storage facilities, transportation networks and oil infrastructure.
Rwanda also signed a separate agreement with Tanzania through RNEC and Gulf Bulk Petroleum Tanzania Limited (GBP) to import petrol and diesel through the Port of Tanga.
The government says the new arrangements will strengthen fuel security, reduce transport challenges and create a more predictable petroleum supply chain for the country.
Current regulated fuel prices, effective from June 5, 2026, stand at Rwf 2,938 per litre for petrol and Rwf 2,927 per litre for diesel.
Mwizerwa Ally
Rwandatribune.rw
