17 June 2025 

The Government of Rwanda and the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) have signed a US$300 million partnership framework agreement to support key sectors vital to Rwanda’s development agenda. The agreement was finalized during the OPEC Development Forum 2025 in Vienna, Austria, highlighting Rwanda’s commitment to South-South cooperation and sustainable, inclusive growth. 

The funding will be directed towards agriculture and food systems, particularly irrigation and post-harvest management, renewable energy projects focused on solar power, and infrastructure upgrades in the aviation sector. 

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, emphasized during the Forum’s session on “Driving Resource Resilience” that Rwanda’s resource management approach is grounded in necessity and sustainability. 

“With a population density nearing 600 people per square kilometer, Rwanda is pioneering integrated solutions such as rainwater harvesting and solar energy systems to support sustainable livelihoods and food security,” Minister Murangwa said. “Our strategy combines careful planning, cross-sectoral collaboration, and systemic financing, supported by development partners.” 

This US$300 million agreement underscores Rwanda’s comprehensive approach to sustainable development, aligning with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It complements ongoing initiatives in climate resilience, energy transition, and rural development. 

Key Focus Areas of the Partnership: 

Agriculture and Food Systems: Investment in modern irrigation and post-harvest infrastructure to reduce food loss and boost productivity. 

Renewable Energy: Expansion of solar power projects to improve energy access and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources. 

Aviation and Connectivity: Establishment of a center of excellence to strengthen Rwanda’s position as a regional transport hub.

The OPEC Development Forum 2025, held under the theme of advancing development finance, climate resilience, digital inclusion, and sustainable transitions, fostered high-level dialogue on unlocking financing and building impactful partnerships. 

This agreement forms part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to enhance climate resilience, boost domestic productivity, and drive inclusive economic transformation.