The expansion of the Rusumo International Bridge and supporting roads has significantly enhanced trade and transport efficiency between Rwanda and Tanzania.
Noel Nkurikiye, a cross-border truck driver and the secretary general of Rwanda Professional Truck Drivers Union, recalls the challenges posed by the Rusumo International Bridge, which connects Rwanda and Tanzania. Previously, the single-lane bridge was a significant bottleneck, causing delays and inconveniences for truck drivers.
“Since it was not possible for two trucks to cross the bridge simultaneously, one truck had to wait for the other to pass. A large number of trucks use the bridge, and such waiting took a long time, affecting the timely arrival of goods due to the congestion,” he explained.
However, following its expansion, the Rusumo International Bridge now features a two-lane road, allowing trucks from both sides to cross simultaneously. This upgrade was funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and has significantly improved transportation efficiency.
The bridge measures approximately 80 meters in length and 13.5 meters in width, with a load capacity increased to 180 tonnes—more than triple the previous limit of around 53 tonnes. The speed limit has also risen from 5 km/h to 30 km/h, further enhancing the flow of goods.
By increasing capacity and reducing bottlenecks, the bridge facilitates commerce and transport along the Central Corridor, a key logistics link for East African countries. For many years, the bridge suffered from congestion due to structural deterioration and complex customs procedures.
“Before the bridge and One Stop Border Post facility improvements, we were delayed by around one hour. Now, that time has been saved, enabling more efficient cross-border trade and movement,” Nkurikiye noted.
Rusumo–Kayonza Road Improvements
In addition to the bridge, JICA also supported the construction of the Rusumo–Kayonza Road, which is part of the Kagitumba–Kayonza–Rusumo Road, a 208-kilometer national road in Rwanda’s Eastern Province. This road connects two major regional trade corridors: the Northern Corridor via Uganda and the Central Corridor via Rusumo into Tanzania.
Prior to 2018, much of the road was gravel and in poor condition. The upgrade has reduced travel times and transport costs significantly. Improvements included better design, shoulders, drainage, and street lighting, which led to a reduction in accidents by over 60%.
“Trucks were given a dedicated lane around Kabarondo urban centre to reduce accidents and traffic jams. There used to be many accidents, but now we reach our destinations on time,” Nkurikiye testified.
This road links remote districts and enables smoother access to social services, cross-border trade, and international routes via borders with Uganda and Tanzania. It has also boosted local economic activities, land values, and livelihood opportunities, improving access for rural communities.
One Stop Border Post (OSBP)
JICA supported the establishment of a One Stop Border Post (OSBP) at the Rwanda–Tanzania border to facilitate more efficient cross-border trade and movement. These projects ease the movement of goods and people between Rwanda and its neighbors, supporting the East African Community’s goals for deeper regional integration.
According to Nkurikiye, the absence of an OSBP previously delayed services for truck drivers and cross-border traders. “We used to go to the migration office on the Rwandan side for checking and stamping before crossing to Tanzania. After reaching the Tanzanian side, we had to go to their migration office for another round of checks and stamping,” he explained.
Now, with the OSBP, all checks are conducted on the Rwandan side, reducing waiting time significantly. “Currently, the maximum waiting time is 30 minutes,” he said.
The OSBP integrates customs, immigration, and other border control services for both countries under one roof, allowing travelers and cargo to avoid double checks. This has streamlined the process, enabling faster clearance times.
“Cargo truck clearance time has dropped from an average of about four hours to only about 30 minutes,” explained Felicien Mwumvaneza, Commissioner for Customs at the Rwanda Revenue Authority. The collaborative efforts of customs, migration, and other border control agencies have allowed for faster cross-border clearance.
Expert Insights
John Bosco Kalisa, an expert in regional integration and outgoing CEO of the East African Business Council, emphasized the importance of the Rusumo–Kayonza Road and the Rusumo International Bridge in facilitating trade across the Central Corridor. He noted that these investments enhance Rwanda’s competitiveness in the region by reducing the time and cost of doing business.
“The Central Corridor accounts for almost 80% of Rwanda’s imports and exports. It is a vital artery connecting Rwanda to the rest of the world through the port of Dar es Salaam. Therefore, this is a noble investment for the country and aligns well with the aspirations of the second National Strategy for Transformation, which aims to double the value and volume of exports,” Kalisa stated.
Key Points
- The Rusumo International Bridge has been expanded to a two-lane structure, improving traffic flow.
- Load capacity increased to 180 tonnes, enhancing transportation efficiency.
- The Rusumo–Kayonza Road upgrade has reduced travel times and transport costs.
- The establishment of the One Stop Border Post has streamlined customs and immigration processes.
- Cross-border clearance times have decreased significantly, benefiting trade.
- These infrastructure improvements support regional integration and economic growth.
Sources: How Rusumo cross-border infrastructure boosted Rwanda’s regional integration
