The Kenyan Cabinet has approved a significant transit arrangement enabling Rwanda to import over 40,000 metric tonnes of fuel through the Port of Mombasa and Kenya's pipeline infrastructure.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced the approval following discussions with Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Jean Nduhungirehe. The deal is expected to strengthen Rwanda’s fuel supply chain by providing a more reliable import route while boosting Kenya’s role as a regional petroleum transit hub.
Key Details of the Transit Arrangement
- Rwanda will import approximately 40,000 metric tonnes of fuel, equivalent to about 52 million litres, meeting roughly one month’s national demand.
- The fuel will transit through Mombasa port before moving via Kenya’s pipeline network to Rwanda.
- The arrangement enhances Kenya’s port and pipeline utilization, reinforcing its position as East Africa’s leading petroleum transit point.
Regional Cooperation and Economic Integration
As a landlocked country, Rwanda depends heavily on efficient transport corridors through neighboring states to ensure steady imports of fuel and essential goods. This new deal underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen economic ties and regional integration.
During the bilateral talks, Mudavadi also sought Rwanda’s support for Kenya’s candidates vying for seats at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC), highlighting Kenya’s focus on strengthening regional partnerships and Africa’s representation in global institutions.
Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister welcomed the arrangement, emphasizing its importance for stabilizing the country’s fuel supply.
