The Kenyan Cabinet has given the green light for Rwanda to transport 40,000 metric tonnes of fuel through the Port of Mombasa and Kenya's pipeline network. This decision aims to enhance Kenya's status as a petroleum transit hub in East Africa and strengthen regional economic integration.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced the approval following discussions with Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Jean Nduhungirehe in Addis Ababa. Mudavadi emphasized that the move reflects Kenya's dedication to fostering closer ties with its neighbours.
Rwanda, being landlocked, will now channel a significant portion of its fuel imports through Kenya’s infrastructure. Nduhungirehe highlighted that the volume—equivalent to about 52 million litres or a month’s consumption—will improve Rwanda's fuel security and supply reliability.
Background and Agreements
On June 29, 2026, Kenya and Rwanda signed three key agreements facilitating Rwanda’s bulk refined petroleum imports via Kenya under a Government-to-Government framework. These include a Memorandum of Understanding, a Tripartite Agreement, and a Transport and Storage Agreement, which collectively open the Northern Corridor for Rwanda's petroleum imports.
The agreements culminate negotiations that began in November 2024 and received Cabinet approval in June 2026. Following this framework, Rwanda’s petroleum imports through the corridor are expected to increase from about 42,000 cubic metres in 2025 to over 500,000 cubic metres annually.
The first fuel shipment under this arrangement is scheduled to arrive at Mombasa between September 4 and 6, 2026.
Regional Integration and Cooperation
Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi described the agreements as more than legal instruments, calling them a long-term commitment to ensure Rwanda’s secure and reliable fuel supply. He noted that the projected volume growth signifies deeper economic integration within the East African Community and the Great Lakes Region.
During the meeting, Mudavadi also sought Rwanda’s support for Kenyan candidates vying for positions at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and Africa’s voice in international bodies.
