The Rwanda Energy Group Limited (REG) has said the recent electricity disruptions affecting various parts of the country were caused by acts of vandalism targeting transmission lines. In a statement released on March 13, REG explained that these acts have destabilized power exchange in regional interconnected networks, leading to widespread outages. ALSO READ: Inside Rwanda’s plan to set up 110 MW nuclear power plants The power utility company acknowledged the inconvenience caused to residents, businesses, and essential services, noting that the problem is not exclusive to Rwanda but also affects neighboring countries. “While the line repair works are ongoing and expected to be completed no later than March 17, 2025, REG Management would like to assure our customers that necessary measures have been taken to prevent similar incidents,” the statement read. ALSO READ: Over 1.5m new households connected to electricity since 2017 – PM REG also urged the public to exercise caution around power lines, especially in areas experiencing outages, as repair works continue. The company reaffirmed its commitment to restoring stable and reliable electricity supply across affected regions. Public frustration over power outages Power disruptions have sparked frustration among residents in different parts of the country, with many complaining that the blackouts occur without prior warning and often during busy hours. ALSO READ: Why Rwanda is updating its energy policy Jean-Pierre Uwimana, a resident of Muringa Sector, Nyabihu District, voiced his concerns about frequent and unpredictable outages in his area. “Sometimes, the power cuts happen without prior notice, which is very inconvenient. Power often goes out for hours. REG should provide updates in advance. The way electricity keeps going on and off can damage our electrical appliances,” he said. Triphonie Mukeshimana from Kisaro Sector, Rulindo District, reported a 45-minute blackout on the Tuesday evening. “It happened around 7 PM, a time when we were preparing food and helping children with their studies. This was very inconvenient for us,” she stated. As REG works to resolve the issue, residents told The New Times that they were hopeful that a swift and lasting solution would be found to end power disruptions.
