Rwanda’s shift toward energy independence took centre stage in Kigali on March 24, as policymakers, investors, and industry leaders convened for the CNG Forum 2026 to explore how Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) could transform the country’s energy landscape. Anchored on Gasmeth’s Lake Kivu methane project, discussions highlighted a growing push to cut reliance on costly fuel imports, expand access to cleaner energy, strengthen energy self-sufficiency, and unlock new economic opportunities across industry, transport, and households, among other key sectors. Gasmeth’s ongoing project to extract and distribute CNG from Lake Kivu, targets households through cooking gas, powering industries and fueling vehicles. The forum was held under the theme “CNG: The Bridge to Cleaner, Greener, and Affordable Energy for Rwanda,” and brought together policymakers, investors, industry leaders, and energy experts to discuss the country’s transition toward sustainable energy. Discussions focused on the development of locally sourced gas for industrial use, clean cooking, and transport, alongside the need for stakeholder collaboration, infrastructure readiness, and public awareness. With global energy uncertainties, rising fuel costs, and environmental concerns shaping the conversation, speakers emphasised CNG as a practical, cost-effective and scalable solution capable of delivering up to 44 per cent savings for users while supporting cleaner energy access, job creation, and long-term economic transformation. ALSO READ: Gasmeth Energy to invest $400m in Kivu methane extraction Gasmeth outlines vision for energy self-sufficiency Gasmeth Group CEO Stephen Tierney addressed participants virtually, highlighting the urgency of energy independence in a rapidly changing global context. “The purpose of this project is to create energy self-sufficiency for Rwanda at a time when global energy has become a major concern. Rwanda currently imports virtually all of its energy, and what we are trying to do is develop gas from Lake Kivu to produce industrial gas, cooking gas, and automotive fuel that will significantly reduce this dependency and retain value within the country,” he said. Tierney explained that the project is designed to serve multiple sectors, from heavy industry to households and transport, while also building a reliable local supply chain that supports long-term economic stability. ALSO READ: Rwf2bn lab to monitor Lake Kivu methane gas, ecosystem nears completion CNG positioned as catalyst for industrial growth Building on this, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, positioned CNG as a strategic enabler of Rwanda’s broader economic ambitions. He stated that reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy is essential for industrial growth and improved living standards. “Rwanda’s aspirations for sustained industrial development, economic growth, and improved quality of life depend on energy that is reliable, affordable, and sustainable. Compressed natural gas offers a practical and strategic opportunity to reduce our reliance on expensive, polluting imported fuels while enabling cleaner cooking, greener transport systems, and competitive energy for industries,” he noted. Minister Murangwa further emphasised that Rwanda’s domestic methane resources place the country in a strong position to transition toward low-carbon energy while driving transformation across multiple sectors. ALSO READ: GasMeth invests additional Rwf230bn in Lake Kivu methane project Bridging the knowledge gap and preparing the market From a project execution perspective, Gasmeth’s Director of Commercial and Business Integration, Ndidi Ejekam, explained that the forum was designed to bridge the knowledge gap around CNG and prepare the market for adoption. “The reason we brought everyone together today is because this is a new project in Rwanda, and people need to clearly understand how to transition from existing fuels to CNG,” She said. “Cost savings can reach up to 44 per cent depending on the fuel you are replacing, and the payback period for conversion is between 10 months to a year and a half, making this not only an environmentaly friendly solution but also a strong financial opportunity,” she explained. Ejekam emphasised that beyond awareness, the forum created a practical space where businesses could directly engage with conversion companies, equipment suppliers, and technical experts to understand the transition process. “When you control your own source of fuel, you control the entire value chain — from availability to pricing — and you are no longer exposed to external shocks or disruptions that affect imported fuels.” ALSO READ: Rwandans could start using methane gas for cooking in 2027 Economic gains and foreign exchange relief in focus Liban Mugabo, CEO of Safe Gas, underlined the economic and strategic importance of shifting toward locally sourced energy. He noted that reducing fuel imports would ease pressure on foreign exchange while strengthening national resilience. “A significant portion of foreign exchange is spent on importing petroleum products, and if we can shift to locally produced CNG, the savings will be enormous. This will reduce pressure on the dollar, free up resources for other sectors, and provide a more stable and predictable energy source for the country,” he reiterated. Mugabo also highlighted the efficiency and environmental advantages of CNG compared to traditional fuels, while stressing the need for preparation ahead of rollout. “CNG is not just cleaner, it is far more efficient and cost-effective, but for it to succeed we need proper training, strong regulatory frameworks, and investment in infrastructure so that by the time it becomes fully commercial, the country is ready to adopt it at scale.” ALSO READ: Safe Gas founder on life, risk taking and leaving good jobs to venture into business From a regional perspective, Temilade Christiana of Link City Gas Network in Nigeria, described Rwanda’s move toward CNG as both timely and forward-thinking. She pointed out that the initiative aligns with global sustainability goals and reflects a broader shift toward cleaner energy across Africa. “Rwanda developing its own natural gas resources and moving toward cleaner, more sustainable energy is a significant step that aligns with global development goals. It presents opportunities for job creation, economic growth, and long-term transformation, not just for Rwanda but as a model for other African countries,” she said. She also emphasised the importance of building strong foundations ahead of full implementation. “While 2028 may seem far, this is the time to put the right structures, regulations, and systems in place so that when the project is fully implemented, there is a smooth rollout, rapid adoption, and real impact on both the economy and everyday lives of citizens,” she added.
