Kenya, Rwanda sign fuel import deal to boost supply security

Kenya and Rwanda signed three pacts on Monday setting up a government framework for Rwanda-bound fuel imports, the Kenya Pipeline Company KPC.NR and Rwanda's Trade Ministry said in statements on X.

• The agreements comprise a memorandum of understanding, a tripartite agreement and a transport and storage agreement, setting up a government-to-government framework.

• Rwanda said the partnership would boost security and continuity of petroleum supply, free up logistical bottlenecks and make import flows more predictable.

• The deal supports Rwanda's strategy to diversify import routes, strengthen fuel security and make petroleum products available for economic growth and industrial development.

• Designated institutions such as Rwanda National Energy Company and KPC will begin implementing the deal, working with both countries' government agencies, Rwanda said.

• Landlocked Rwanda imports all its petroleum products overland through two main ports, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Mombasa in Kenya.

• The new arrangement aims to move a greater share of Rwanda's fuel imports to the Mombasa route, using Kenyan storage and pipeline infrastructure.

• KPC said the first cargo covered by the deal is set to arrive at Mombasa between September 4 and September 6 to launch operations under the partnership.

-Reporting by George Obulutsa; Writing by Vincent Mumo Nzilani; Editing by Clarence Fernandez/Reuters