Kenya and Rwanda have signed a landmark government-to-government agreement to facilitate Rwanda’s importation of refined petroleum products through Kenya’s energy infrastructure, a move aimed at strengthening fuel supply security and improving regional trade. According to Reuters and MarketScreener, the agreement comprises a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), a Tripartite Agreement, and a Transport and Storage Agreement, creating a formal framework for Rwanda-bound fuel imports via the Port of Mombasa and the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) network.
Under the new arrangement, Rwanda will channel a greater share of its fuel imports through Kenya’s Northern Corridor, leveraging KPC’s storage facilities and pipeline infrastructure to improve the reliability and efficiency of petroleum deliveries. Rwanda’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said the partnership will enhance the security and continuity of fuel supplies, ease logistical bottlenecks, and make import flows more predictable. The Kenya Pipeline Company confirmed that the first cargo under the agreement is expected to arrive at the Port of Mombasa between September 4 and 6, marking the official commencement of operations under the new framework.
The agreement is expected to deepen economic integration within the East African Community (EAC) while reinforcing Kenya’s position as a regional energy and logistics hub. Rwanda, which imports all of its petroleum products through overland routes from the ports of Mombasa and Dar es Salaam, views the deal as part of its broader strategy to diversify import routes, improve supply resilience, and support industrial growth. Kenyan Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the agreement fully opens the Northern Corridor to Rwanda for bulk refined petroleum imports under a government-to-government arrangement.
KBC Digital says the partnership could lower transportation costs, improve fuel availability, and strengthen cross-border trade across the Great Lakes region. By enhancing the utilization of Kenya’s petroleum infrastructure and creating a more predictable supply chain, the agreement is expected to support long-term energy security while advancing regional economic cooperation and integration.
