The United States and Rwanda have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, marking a significant step in the two countries’ growing strategic partnership.

The agreement was signed on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, by Renee Sonderman, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation, and Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Usta Kayitesi.

According to a media note released by the U.S. Embassy in Rwanda, the agreement officially titled the “Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation” (NCMOU) is intended to advance peaceful civil nuclear cooperation between Washington and Kigali.

The U.S. Embassy said the memorandum represents an important step toward expanding collaboration in civil nuclear energy and supporting reliable and secure energy development in Rwanda.

“The United States and Rwanda are committed to promoting the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation as the two countries advance this partnership,” the statement reads.

The agreement also reflects broader efforts by the United States to deepen strategic ties with partner countries through civil nuclear cooperation frameworks first introduced during President Donald Trump’s first term in office.

During the same occasion, U.S.-based company Holtec International and the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB) signed a comprehensive development agreement to support the deployment of Holtec’s SMR-300 technology in Rwanda.

The SMR-300 is a Small Modular Reactor (SMR), a next-generation nuclear technology designed to provide safer, more flexible, and more reliable energy production. SMRs are increasingly being promoted globally as a solution for countries seeking to expand electricity access while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

The latest agreement comes as Rwanda continues to explore alternative and long-term energy solutions to meet growing electricity demand and support industrial development.