Rwanda is set to strengthen its automotive manufacturing sector after President Paul Kagame signed an investment agreement with Chinese automotive group Chery Holding to establish an electric vehicle assembly plant in the country.
The project is expected to expand domestic manufacturing, create opportunities in the automotive industry and support Rwanda’s efforts to promote cleaner forms of transport.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB), acting on President Kagame’s instructions, signed the Strategic Investment Agreement with Ecofleet Solutions Ltd and Chery Holding Rwanda Ltd on Friday, October 30, 2026.
The agreement brings together the Rwandan entities and the Chinese automotive group in a partnership aimed at developing electric vehicle assembly operations within the country.
The planned facility is expected to contribute to the growth of Rwanda’s industrial sector by introducing local vehicle assembly and strengthening the country’s position in the emerging electric mobility market.
The investment also aligns with Rwanda’s wider ambitions to encourage green mobility and reduce reliance on conventional fuel-powered transport. Electric vehicles are increasingly being considered as part of efforts to lower transport-related emissions.
Chery Holding’s involvement brings a major Chinese automotive manufacturer into Rwanda’s plans to develop its electric vehicle industry, potentially opening opportunities for technology transfer, skills development and related businesses.
Further details about the plant’s construction timeline, production capacity, investment value and expected job creation were not provided in the announcement. However, the agreement marks a new step in Rwanda’s efforts to attract international investment and expand its manufacturing base.
