Southern Province: Over 141 Households to Gain Solar Electricity in Landmark Initiative

By The Inspirer.

A total of 141 households in Ruhango and Nyanza districts are set to receive solar-powered electricity and environmentally friendly cooking stoves under a three-year partnership agreement between BK Foundation and the Rwanda Energy Private Developers (EPD).

The agreement, signed on November 15, 2024, stipulates that electricity will reach all the identified households within one month.

EPD’s Managing Director, Dr. Ivan Twagirashema, hailed the initiative as a significant milestone, marking their first collaboration with a Rwandan institution after years of working primarily with international organizations.

“This is a moment to celebrate. In over 13 years of operations, this is our first partnership with a local institution. We are confident that our three-year collaboration will be successful, and we look forward to undertaking similar projects in the future,” he said.

EPD’s Chief Executive Officer, Muhizi Wilson Serge, explained that Ruhango and Nyanza were chosen as starting points due to the ease of obtaining data in these areas, but the initiative will eventually expand to other districts.

Ingrid Karangwayire, the Executive Secretary of BK Foundation, emphasized that the collaboration aligns with their mission to promote environmental conservation.

“This initiative is part of the work we have begun, guided by our three pillars, including environmental protection. We have already achieved significant milestones, and we will continue to undertake similar projects. Partnering with organizations that support our work without seeking financial gain is invaluable to us,” she noted.

Currently, nearly 80% of households in Rwanda have access to electricity, including solar energy. The government’s Vision NST2 aims to achieve universal access to electricity within the next five years.