The Rubavu Port was officially opened on Friday, and is expected to boost trade and maritime transport between Rwanda and DR Congo.

The biggest port in Rwanda located in Nyamyumba Sector, Rubavu District, has the capacity of 1.4 million passengers annually and two cargo vessels, each with a capacity of 500 DWT and a length of 60 m.

ALSO READ: How Rubavu port is set to reshape cross-border trade with DR Congo

The port, whose construction cost more than $9 million, was among four ports that were to be built as part of a broader construct four ports along the shores of Lake Kivu in the Western Province.

Other ports in the pipeline include Rusizi, which is 51% complete, as well as Nkora and Karongi, both scheduled for construction in early 2025, according to officials.

ALSO READ: Rwanda’s biggest port to open in December

The New Times spoke to Rubavu residents, business people, and Congolese about their expectations and what the port means in terms of trade industry and maritime transport.

Trésor Hategekimana, Paradis Malahide Resort

Trésor Hategekimana, hotelier, Paradis Malahide Resort

What we are expecting from the port as hoteliers is to gain more customers, tourists, from different places around Rwanda and far away. We expect the number of foreigners visiting Rubavu to increase and they will need accommodation and a place to eat and to relax.

It is interesting to the community around here and the whole district at large. I see the port as a game changer that is going to increase the movement of people. We will be able to accommodate more guests and receive more clients, which is good news.

It means a lot to Nyamyumba Sector and Rwanda at large, for it will provide job opportunities to the local community.

Elisha Mporanyi, cross-border transport operator

Elisha Mporanyi, a cross-border transport operator.

I transport cement from Rubavu to Goma. The previous port was too small to accommodate all the boats navigating on Lake Kivu. But with the new and bigger port, business is going to become easier.

Onesphore Nshimiyimana, owner, El Classico Beach

Onesphore Nshimiyimana, owner, El Classico Beach.

The port is part of economic development, and we expect more people coming in as business individuals. I have started receiving some truck drivers who come to have a meal here, and they need for accommodation. It’s truly nice.

It’s a modern port, for sure. I visited it. Docking is very easy, and it is secure, for it includes a police post and a section of boat maintenance. This area is developing rapidly compared to the last ten years.

Alice Uwamwiza, Nyamyumba resident

As residents of Rubavu District, we are looking forward to getting jobs at the new port. It also it provides opportunities for small businesses. It is good infrastructure for this area, the district, and the country in general.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of TradeMark Africa.