Rwanda is planning a major investment in nuclear energy as part of its long-term strategy to become a high-income economy by 2050.
President Paul Kagame said the country could invest up to $6 billion to develop nuclear power plants that would provide stable electricity for industries, businesses, and growing cities.
The government is considering small modular reactors, a newer type of nuclear technology designed for countries with smaller power grids.
If the project moves forward, Rwanda’s first nuclear power plant could start operating in the early 2030s.
Rwanda is already preparing for the project through the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency to develop safety systems, regulations, and train local experts.
The plan is part of Rwanda’s long-term national development strategy, Vision 2050, which aims to transform the country into a high-income and industrialized economy.
If implemented, nuclear energy could significantly increase Rwanda’s electricity supply and support the country’s push for faster industrial and economic growth.
