Increased access to electricity for the rural population
Only 7 % of Rwandans have access to electricity (2009). In rural areas, where 90% of the 10 million inhabitants live, this figure is even lower (1% access to electricity). Energy remains far too expensive in relation to people’s income. The high cost compels the government to subsidize production and distribution.
Electricity for better health
In Rwanda, fuel wood largely remains the single source of energy of the rural population and the majority of city dwellers. Wood and charcoal are generally used for cooking but also in brick making and other factories. The all-out use of the fuel wood has proven effects on health and results in massive deforestation due to the indiscriminate cutting of trees.
The lack of access to electricity is dire, especially in rural areas. Thus, for example, it is difficult to perform basic surgery or to attend to expecting mothers with paraffin lamps or to keep vaccines in appropriate conditions with petrol-run fridges.
The Government of Rwanda has charted out an ambitious development agenda aimed at transforming the country into a middle-income and knowledge-based economy by 2020. Thus increased access to energy is key to setting the Rwandan economic machinery in motion.
A national strategic priority
By 2012, the national access rate is expected to increase by 16 percent (up to 350,000 connections). Half of schools, all health facilities and administration offices should be electrified by then. The Belgian cooperation is contributing up to 10 percent towards meeting the objectives of the energy sector of Rwanda through increased production and distribution and extension of the existing network.
Spots of light in rural areas
BTC, in conjunction with the Ministry of Infrastructure, is implementing various projects in the electricity sector: the extension of power lines to the least-served rural areas and capacity development of the national institutions in management of the existing facilities.
Furthermore, BTC has equipped 50 remote rural health centres with solar photovoltaic systems to improve service delivery, such as making basic surgical and obstetrical interventions.
Several spin-offs of projects include the creation of more viable and economically attractive rural areas and improved public service delivery, health and education services.
Alongside infrastructure development, capacity development in the energy sector is also embedded in all interventions. Infrastructure development projects are implemented in partnership with the public water and electricity utility company (RECO/RWASCO) to ensure the transfer of skills.
Challenges
Despite the all-out resolve of the government and the international willingness to support the energy sector, major challenges still lie ahead on the way to increased access for rural populations. The topography of Rwandan landscape makes power extension expensive. Despite subsidies by the government, the capacity of the population to pay for connection and consumption is still a major setback for low-income households.
