Rwanda and China Partner on $50.7 Million Deal to Revolutionize Agriculture

On January 22, 2025, Rwanda and China signed a major agreement for a financial grant of over 66 billion Rwandan Francs, aimed at boosting the country’s agricultural development. The agreement was formalized by Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, and China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun.

This funding will be provided as a loan by China’s Exim Bank, to be repaid over the next 20 years. The money will be used to construct the Giseke Dam in the Gisagara District and expand modern irrigation systems to improve crop production.

The two countries have long collaborated in various sectors including agriculture, healthcare, tourism, education, industry, and infrastructure.

During the China-Africa summit in September 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized his country’s commitment to supporting agricultural development across Africa, with Rwanda being a key partner. Agriculture plays a crucial role in Rwanda’s economy, with more than 65% of the population dependent on it, and a large portion of the country’s exports going to China.

Looking ahead, China plans to invest in 30 new infrastructure projects across Africa in the next three years. Furthermore, China intends to provide African nations with 360 billion Yuan (roughly 50.7 billion USD) in aid. This significant investment is expected to have a direct impact on Rwanda’s vision for 2050, aiming to elevate the country to one of the wealthiest in the region.

In addition, China plans to contribute to Africa’s agricultural growth by providing 6,670 hectares of land for advanced agricultural research and sending 500 Chinese agricultural experts to help develop commercial farming across the continent.