ADFD signs AED92 million loan agreement to enhance water security in Rwanda

emirates7 - The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has entered into a loan agreement valued at AED92 million (approximately USD 25 million) with the Government of Rwanda to fund the expansion of water transmission and distribution infrastructure at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant.

This strategic initiative, aimed at bolstering Rwanda’s water security, underscores ADFD’s dedication to advancing global development projects, particularly those aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. Notably, it supports SDG 6, which emphasizes access to clean and sustainable water for all.

The agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, ADFD’s Director-General, and John Mirenge, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides.

Al Suwaidi highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating that it reflects ADFD’s commitment to funding infrastructure projects that drive economic and social progress in beneficiary countries. He emphasized the importance of the partnership with Rwanda in fostering growth in vital sectors. The project, he noted, is a key step toward ensuring clean and sustainable water supplies, addressing challenges through improved efficiency and advanced technologies to enhance water security.

Ambassador Mirenge expressed pride in the collaboration with ADFD, acknowledging the UAE’s consistent efforts to promote sustainable development worldwide. He described the Karenge Water Treatment Plant expansion as a pivotal initiative to achieve Rwanda’s national goals of providing clean water and establishing resilient and sustainable water infrastructure to meet community needs.

He further noted that the project would improve the quality of life for Rwandan citizens by creating jobs and enhancing water distribution networks to meet rising demand. “This milestone is integral to our broader development plans and our goal of achieving universal access to clean water,” he remarked.

The project forms part of a larger programme designed to secure Kigali’s water supply. It includes the construction of a water treatment facility with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic metres and the expansion of transmission and distribution systems to key areas of the city.