Rwanda is undertaking one of its most ambitious infrastructure programs in decades, committing $270 million (equivalent to 392 billion Rwandan francs) to expand the nation’s water supply systems. Announced by Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore before Parliament, the initiative spans forty-four major projects and aims to ensure clean and reliable water for every citizen by 2029.
This nationwide investment is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s long-term strategy to modernize public utilities, improve water reliability, and support sustainable development goals. According to a national study released in April 2025, access to safe drinking water has already reached 90%, up from 87% in 2017. The government now targets 100% coverage within the next four years, covering households, schools, health facilities, and businesses. This aligns with the objectives outlined in Vision 2050, reinforcing Rwanda’s commitment to resilient and modern infrastructure.
A significant portion of the funding will upgrade existing water facilities, including the Nzove Water Treatment Plant, a primary water source for Kigali. The $21 million Nzove expansion is expected to improve both quality and quantity, ensuring steady supply during rainy and dry seasons. Complementing this, projects in Mwange and Gicumbi valued at $32 million are currently underway to serve regional communities.
In the Southern Province, a large-scale pipeline connecting Huye, Nyaruguru, and Gisagara is under construction at a cost of $98 million. Designed to produce 24,000 cubic meters of water per day, this system includes 473 kilometers of new pipelines and will significantly improve access for local residents.
The Muhazi Water Treatment Plant expansion, budgeted at $27 million and already 85% complete, will serve Gatsibo and Kayonza districts. Once operational, it will treat 12,000 cubic meters daily and deliver water through 256 kilometers of pipelines to 165 public points, benefiting over 543,000 residents in Eastern Province.
In Western Rwanda, the Kivu Belt Water Supply Project, with a $23 million budget, will produce 13,000 cubic meters per day and extend distribution pipelines across 125 kilometers. This project aims to ensure reliable water supply to Rubengera and Bwishyura sectors in Karongi District.
The Karenge Water Treatment Plant near Lake Mugesera represents one of the nation’s most anticipated projects. Upon completion, it will triple current output from 12,000 to 36,000 cubic meters daily, supplying Kigali and the surrounding areas, including Rwamagana Industrial Park. The project encompasses plant construction, distribution networks, reservoirs, and storage facilities.
Rwanda is also preparing to integrate water from the upcoming Nyabarongo II hydropower dam, expected in 2027. The reservoir will provide cleaner raw water, reducing treatment costs and allowing the Nzove plant to operate more efficiently year-round.
Historically, water management suffered from poor oversight and aging infrastructure. Prior to 2023, district-level administration resulted in thousands of kilometers of damaged pipelines and 432 nonfunctional networks nationwide. Since WASAC’s takeover, 167 of these systems have been repaired, with more improvements planned as funding becomes available.
Another major challenge is Rwanda’s high Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate. Currently, the country loses about 38% of treated water due to leaks, theft, broken meters, and unbilled consumption. Kigali alone accounts for 39.5% of losses. The government aims to reduce NRW to 30% by summer 2026, 25% by 2027, and an ambitious 5% by 2029, aligning with top global standards. Performance-based partnerships will ensure support agencies are compensated only after achieving these targets.
All ongoing projects are strategically linked to Rwanda’s Vision 2050. To secure universal, sustainable access to safe drinking water, the country estimates an investment requirement exceeding 12 trillion Rwandan francs. This integrated approach, spanning rehabilitation, expansion, and modern water management systems, is expected to transform Rwanda’s water landscape, enhance public health, and support long-term socioeconomic development.
By prioritizing access, quality, and reliability, Rwanda is positioning itself as a model for sustainable water infrastructure in Africa. The combination of upgraded treatment plants, extensive pipeline networks, and modern monitoring systems promises to ensure that clean water reaches every citizen, fulfilling a critical public service goal while supporting economic growth and resilience across the nation.
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