Completion Ceremony of the Project for Construction of Rusumo International Bridge and One Stop Border Post (OSBP) Facilities （10th January, 2015）
On 10th January, Ambassador Ogawa attended the Completion Ceremony of the Japanese Grant Aid project “Project for Construction of Rusumo International Bridge and One Stop Border Post (OSBP) Facilities” together with Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, President of JICA. Who was visiting Rwanda. Although Rusumo is a very important and busy point for commodity distribution between Rwanda and Tanzania, the old bridge could not respond to the increase of traffic volume. In addition, cumbersome procedure for border crossing was hampering smooth movement of merchadise. This project constructed a new bridge, which allows the permanent use of two lanes with enough capacity to support the axle load, and constructed and renovated OSBP facilities. The project increases the axle load, relaxes the speed limit, and decrease the time needed for procedure to cross the border. Therefore, it is expected to reduce the cost of transportation and expand the trade volumes. Hon. James Musoni, Minister of Infrastructure attended the ceremony as a representative of the Government of Rwanda, and Mr. John Mongella, Regional Commissioner of Kagera Region attended as a representative of the Government of Tanzania.
(Left: Cutting the Ribbon on new Rusumo Bridge, Right: Amb. Ogawa with Hon. Musoni, Minister of Infrastructure and Mr. Mongella, Regional Commissioner of Kagera Region)
Ambassador Ogawa, in his speech, commended the entire staff working tirelessly and successfully completing the project, and hoped this project would boost trade, investment and competition, not only in Rwanda and Tanzania but also across the EAC partner countries and beyond, and contributes to a broader economic development of the region. Hon. Musoni, Minister of Infrastructure appreciated the support by the Government of Japan and said that this project would facilitate the movement of people and goods and both Rwanda and Tanzania would gain advantages, continuously putting all efforts to make the facility appreciated by all users.
(Left: Amb. Ogawa giving his speech, Right: Hon. Musoni, Minister of Infrastructure giving his speech)
(Left: Dr. Tanaka, President of JICA giving his speech, Right: Mr. Mongella, Regional Commissioner of Kagera Region giving his speech)
(Left: Representatives of three countries and Dr. Tanaka attending the ceremony, Right: With Japanese companies who conducted the project)
Overview of Rusumo International Bridge and OSBP Facility
(Left: OSBP facility in Tanzanian side and Rusumo International Bridge, Right: Guide board at OSBP facility in Rwandan side)
(Left: Large tracks waiting for customs and administrative procedures, Right: Sign board on the bridge)