Rwanda is stepping up efforts to explore its oil and gas potential in Lake Kivu, a basin strategically located within the Eastern African Rift Valley. The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB) has unveiled findings from a 2D seismic survey, signaling promising hydrocarbon resources in the region.
The survey, conducted between 2021 and 2022, revealed a significant hydrocarbon prospect beneath Lake Kivu, with a basin depth of approximately 3.5 kilometers. It identified 13 structural pockets as potential drilling sites to confirm the presence and commercial viability of the resources.
“This is a pivotal moment for Rwanda’s energy ambitions,” RMB said in a statement, noting that the findings could position the country as a key player in the region’s energy landscape.
As global energy firms eye emerging markets for exploration opportunities, RMB is seeking partners to advance the next stages of exploration, development, and eventual production in the Lake Kivu basin. The project aligns with Rwanda’s strategy to diversify its energy sector and attract foreign investment in resource development.
The potential hydrocarbon reserves at Lake Kivu could not only reshape Rwanda’s energy industry but also strengthen its regional influence in East Africa’s energy ecosystem.
RMB’s call for international collaboration underscores its commitment to maximizing the economic benefits of the basin while ensuring environmental sustainability and inclusive development.
