Overview of the New Master Plan for Rwandan Lakes
Rwanda is implementing a new master plan to manage water use across five of its lakes—Kivu, Muhazi, Mugesera, Ruhondo, and Burera. This initiative, developed by the Rwanda Water Resources Board, aims to ensure sustainable utilization of these water bodies while addressing the needs of various stakeholders. As part of this plan, individuals and organizations currently holding permits for activities in these lakes will be required to relocate if their operations do not align with the designated zones outlined in the plan.
The master plan was released in March 2025 and provides detailed allocations for recreation, transport, agriculture, fishing, energy production, and methane gas exploration. It emphasizes the need for structured and sustainable use of the lakes’ resources, ensuring that different activities coexist without conflict.
Specific Allocations for Each Lake
Lake Kivu
Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake and the sixth largest in Africa, covers an area of 2,730 square kilometers. The master plan designates 31% of the lake for methane gas exploration, 53% for capture fisheries, 7% for fish farming, and 8% for tourism and recreation. The plan also outlines specific navigation routes to enhance safety and navigability on the lake.
Muhazi and Mugesera Lakes
Muhazi, covering 33 square kilometers, and Mugesera, spanning 40 square kilometers, are located in the eastern part of Rwanda. In Muhazi, 42% of the surface will be used for fish farming, 41% for tourism and recreation, and 2% for household water supply. In Mugesera, 99% of the surface will be dedicated to tourism and fishing, with 0.7% reserved for water supply.
Burera and Ruhondo Lakes
These twin lakes, covering a combined area of 2,800 hectares, are situated in the Northern Province. On Lake Burera, 30% of the surface will be allocated for tourism and recreation, 11% for fish farming, and 57% for capture fisheries. On Lake Ruhondo, 23% will be for tourism and recreation, 9% for fish farming, and 67% for capture fisheries.
Permit Renewal and Relocation Requirements
Water users who hold valid permits but operate in areas designated for other purposes under the new master plan will be allowed to continue their activities until their permits expire. They will receive timely notifications to relocate their operations to appropriate zones, ensuring minimal disruption and avoiding conflicts among different water uses.
All water users operating in the lakes must obtain permits, as stipulated by the ministerial order relating to water use permits. These permits are generally valid for 15 years and can be renewed. The new master plan serves as a guide for both current users and potential investors, helping them understand where to locate their activities in line with sustainable lake management.
Navigation and Safety Enhancements
Marine transport has been allocated designated zones across the five lakes. On Lake Kivu, dedicated navigation routes are being established to improve navigability and ensure the safety of passengers and goods. Three maritime transport studies will be conducted to assess the safety of transport activities in the lake. Some sections of the lake currently pose risks due to obstacles, and the project will install navigation aids such as buoys and signaling systems to help boats navigate safely.
Impact on Local Communities and Businesses
The proposed studies and navigation improvements have received support from local stakeholders. Moise Niyomugabo, head of the Bwishyura Kivu Boat Cooperative, welcomed the initiative, noting that it would help streamline daily operations and improve safety during nighttime travel. The master plan is expected to aid in better logistics planning and fuel efficiency, benefiting both operators and passengers.
Conclusion
The implementation of the Lakes Water Use Master Plan marks a significant step toward sustainable management of Rwanda’s water resources. By clearly defining zones for different activities, the plan aims to balance economic development with environmental protection. As the country moves forward, the focus will remain on ensuring that all stakeholders, from fishermen to investors, can operate within the framework of responsible and sustainable practices.
