Rwanda and Kenya have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at streamlining the importation of petroleum products through the Northern Corridor, a move expected to strengthen regional trade cooperation and enhance Rwanda’s energy security.
The agreement, signed on Monday, June 29, 2026, will enable Rwanda to utilize Kenya’s petroleum infrastructure, including the Port of Mombasa, oil pipelines, and storage facilities, to transport and store imported fuel more efficiently.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Antoine Marie Kajangwe, said the agreement reflects the shared commitment of both countries to deepen long-standing economic cooperation.
“Signing this agreement goes beyond endorsing legal documents. It reflects the shared vision of our two countries and reinforces the longstanding partnership between Rwanda and Kenya,” Kajangwe said.
He noted that the Northern Corridor has for decades served as a key trade route linking East African economies, facilitating the movement of goods and supporting regional commerce.
Kajangwe said improved access to Kenya’s infrastructure will enable Rwanda to secure petroleum supplies more quickly and reliably while reducing risks associated with disruptions in the fuel supply chain.
“Optimizing the use of Kenya’s port and pipeline infrastructure strengthens regional cooperation, enhances resilience against supply disruptions, improves energy security, and supports our shared objective of deeper regional economic integration,” he said.
The agreement comes as Rwanda continues to diversify its petroleum import routes to reduce its exposure to disruptions in global markets and transport corridors.
By leveraging Kenya’s infrastructure, Rwanda is expected to cut transportation costs and transit times while expanding its fuel storage capacity, helping the country better withstand fluctuations in international fuel prices.
Rwanda currently imports petroleum products mainly through the Port of Mombasa, located about 1,680 kilometres away via the Northern Corridor. The Central Corridor provides an alternative route spanning approximately 1,450 kilometres.
