The Government of Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China today signed a framework agreement of a concessional financing loan valued at US$47 million (approximately Frw 66 billion) for the construction of the Giseke Dam and irrigation development project in Gisagara District.

This initiative aims to enhance agricultural resilience to climate change by irrigating 2,640 hectares of land. It aligns with the targets of the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which promotes water-saving technologies to increase irrigation water productivity and foster economic growth.

Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa stated, “China has been a steadfast development partner for Rwanda, supporting various sectors critical to our development aspirations. The Giseke Dam and irrigation project will significantly contribute to the sustainable transformation of agriculture, as outlined in NST2.”

China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun, said: “The signing of this agreement is a concrete step toward implementing the "10 Partnership Action Plans" proposed by President Xi Jinping for China-Africa cooperation. It marks the further realization of the important consensus reached between the heads of state of China and Rwanda. China remains committed to deepening pragmatic cooperation with Rwanda across various fields, promoting mutual benefits, shared development, and bringing greater well-being to the people of both nations. The Giseke Irrigation Project, supported by concessional loan from the Chinese government, is a tangible outcome of the China-Rwanda collaboration under the "10 Partnership Action Plans." It holds significant importance in advancing Rwanda's agricultural modernization and enhancing its agricultural production capacity.

The project is expected to directly benefit an estimated 915 households, totaling 4,578 individuals, who will utilize the irrigation infrastructure for crop cultivation. Local markets in Gisagara District and beyond are also anticipated to benefit from the commercialization of products harvested from this project.

Economic cooperation between Rwanda and China is primarily driven by projects financed through concessional loans and grant support. Key sectors include infrastructure—particularly roads and energy—as well as education, health, and geology and mining. The current portfolio funded by the Government of China through grants and concessional loans is estimated at USD 600 million, comprising USD 450 million in concessional loans and USD 150 million in grants.