Gishoma Peat Power Plant

The Gishoma Peat Power Plant in the Western Province is part of Rwanda's strategy to diversify its energy mix and utilize domestic resources. Commissioned in 2017, the 15 MW plant uses peat extracted from nearby swamps as fuel. Rwanda has significant peat reserves, and this project was the first to use them for industrial-scale electricity generation. However, the project has faced technical challenges and environmental concerns, as peat extraction can damage wetlands and burning peat releases CO2 emissions. Despite these challenges, the plant represents an important local energy source, reducing reliance on more expensive imported fuels. It has also created jobs in the region, both at the plant and in peat harvesting. The experience from Gishoma is informing the planning of future energy projects, with a greater focus on efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Nearby cities

Musanze

The main city in the north is the gateway to the famous mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park.

Gicumbi

A high-altitude agricultural center where green tea and high-quality wheat are primarily cultivated.

Kinigi

This base camp for tourists is located right next to the Volcanoes National Park and benefits massively from ecotourism.

Base

Its strategically advantageous location halfway to the north makes this place a popular rest stop for travelers.

Gakenke

This mountainous town is famous for its excellent premium coffee, which wins awards worldwide.

Kivuruga

A significant rural commercial center on the north-south transport axis, characterized by agricultural markets.

Rwaza

An important historical place in the north, looking back on a long mission history and the construction of old churches.

Rulindo

An emerging community near the capital, whose economy benefits from coffee processing and mining.

Burera

The administrative center of a northwestern district, located right next to the spectacular twin lakes and nearby volcanoes.

Rukozo

A high-altitude agricultural center in Gicumbi, known for extremely steep terraced fields and dense morning fog.

Miyove

A growing settlement in the northern mountains, whose economy is increasingly driven by modern agro-industrial cooperatives.

Gatuna

The busiest border crossing to Uganda, which handles a large part of the national imports via the Northern Corridor.

History & landmarks

Sorwathe Tea Factory

One of the oldest and largest tea factories in Rwanda, surrounded by picturesque tea estates, making a major contribution to the agricult…

Ruhengeri Cathedral

The main cathedral of the Diocese of Ruhengeri in the city of Musanze, a major hub for gorilla trekking tourists.

Nature

Rurubu River

A significant river that flows through southeastern Rwanda.

Akagera River

A significant tributary of the Nile that flows through the Akagera National Park.

Akagera Wetlands

An extensive swamp and wetland area along the Akagera River.

Lake Ihema

The largest lake in Akagera National Park, known for its rich wildlife.

More places

CIMERWA Cement Factory

The largest and only fully integrated cement manufacturer in Rwanda, located in the southwest.

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Rusizi Port

A southern port on Lake Kivu serving as a trade hub for goods.

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Karongi Tea Factory

Major processing facility for Rwandan black tea from the surrounding hills.

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KivuWatt Power Plant

A unique power plant that uses methane gas from Lake Kivu to generate electricity.

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Rutsiro Coltan Mine

A mining area for coltan, essential for the global electronics industry.

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Rubavu Port

Major inland port on Lake Kivu for trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Bralirwa Brewery Rubavu

Rwanda's largest and oldest commercial brewery, located on the shores of Lake Kivu.

Pfunda Tea Estate

One of the most productive tea factories near Rubavu, exporting premium black tea.