AP Accountant Job in Kigali, Rwanda -Complete Career & Application Guide (ContourGlobal / KivuWatt)

Introduction: Why This AP Accountant Role Matters More Than It Looks

Behind every power plant that lights homes, hospitals, and industries, there is a finance system ensuring that suppliers are paid on time, contracts are honored, and financial records are accurate. In the energy sector, especially in large-scale power generation projects, accounts payable is not a back-office function it is a mission-critical role.

The AP Accountant position in Kigali, Rwanda at ContourGlobal (KivuWatt project) is one of those rare opportunities where accounting, sustainability, and global impact intersect. This role is not just about processing invoices; it is about supporting reliable electricity generation, strengthening Rwanda’s energy infrastructure, and contributing to a global transition toward cleaner power.

For job seekers in accounting and finance particularly those looking to work with an international company operating at world-class standards this role represents career stability, international exposure, and long-term growth.

 

About ContourGlobal and the KivuWatt Project

ContourGlobal, a KKR portfolio company, is a globally established Independent Power Producer (IPP) with over 5.3 GW of installed capacity and a strong pipeline of renewable and transitional energy projects across 18 countries.

The company’s leadership, under CEO Antonio Cammisecra, has prioritized decarbonization, innovation in power purchase agreements (PPAs), and long-term partnerships with governments and communities. With more than 20 years of operational experience, ContourGlobal combines financial discipline with environmental responsibility.

KivuWatt: A Strategic Energy Asset in Rwanda

KivuWatt is one of Rwanda’s most strategic energy projects, converting methane gas from Lake Kivu into electricity. It plays a critical role in:

• Improving national energy security
• Reducing reliance on imported fuels
• Supporting industrial growth
• Advancing climate-resilient energy solutions

Working as an AP Accountant within this project means operating in a high-compliance, project-based, and internationally audited environment.

 

Job Overview: AP Accountant – Kigali, Rwanda

The Accounts Payable (AP) Accountant is responsible for ensuring that all supplier and contractor invoices are accurately recorded, properly approved, tax-compliant, and paid on time.

This role sits at the heart of the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) cycle, working closely with Procurement, Operations & Maintenance (O&M), Warehouse, and the wider Finance team to maintain clean records and a reliable general ledger for KivuWatt.

In simple terms, the AP Accountant ensures that:

• Vendors are paid correctly
• Financial data is accurate
• Audits run smoothly
• Cash flow is predictable

 

Key Responsibilities Explained in Plain Language

1. Procure-to-Pay (P2P) Process & Vendor Invoices

This is the core of the role. You will manage the full journey of a purchase — from planning to payment.

Your responsibilities include:

• Coordinating with the Procurement team to track spending from forecast → purchase order → delivery → invoice → payment
• Reviewing supplier and contractor invoices to confirm:
• They match approved purchase orders and contracts
• Goods were received or services delivered
• Contractor timesheets are validated by managers
• Taxes (VAT, withholding tax) are correctly applied under Rwanda regulations
• Resolving invoice discrepancies such as pricing differences, missing documentation, or quantity mismatches
• Ensuring invoices are approved according to company policies before posting them into the accounting system
• Working with the Warehouse team to confirm that goods received are properly recorded
• Coding invoices accurately to the correct general ledger accounts, cost centers, and projects
• Maintaining a P2P tracker to monitor purchase orders, invoices, and payment status

This level of control protects the company from financial errors, compliance risks, and supplier disputes.

 

2. Payments & Vendor Account Management

Once invoices are approved, the AP Accountant ensures that payments are executed correctly and on time.

Key tasks include:

• Preparing payment runs based on due dates and cash-flow priorities
• Ensuring all payments are properly approved and supported by documentation
• Reconciling vendor accounts and monthly statements
• Investigating and resolving discrepancies or outstanding balances
• Maintaining detailed records of paid, unpaid, and disputed invoices
• Responding promptly to vendor and internal finance queries

Strong vendor relationships depend on accuracy, transparency, and consistency, all of which are driven by this role.

 

3. General Ledger, Accruals & Month-End Close

Beyond day-to-day processing, the role contributes to financial reporting and closing activities.

You will:

• Prepare journal entries for accruals and prepaid expenses
• Amortize prepayments correctly over time
• Reconcile AP-related accounts to the general ledger
• Support monthly and year-end closing processes
• Review AP aging reports and follow up on long-outstanding items
• Identify errors or inconsistencies in the general ledger and propose corrections

This responsibility requires attention to detail and a strong understanding of accounting principles.

 

Required Qualifications and Skills

You are a strong candidate if you meet most of the following criteria:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience

• 2–4 years of experience in Accounts Payable, general accounting, or a similar finance role
• Experience working with ERP systems, preferably SAP
• Exposure to industrial, energy, or project-based environments is an advantage

Technical Skills

• Solid understanding of accounting principles
• Knowledge of Rwanda tax regulations affecting supplier invoices
• Strong Excel and MS Office skills
• Good understanding of the procure-to-pay cycle and AP best practices

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and solution-oriented mindset
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally
• Willingness to improve and streamline processes

 

Why This Role Is Ideal for Career Growth

Working at ContourGlobal offers more than a job title. It provides:

• Exposure to international accounting standards
• Experience in a highly regulated energy sector
• Collaboration with global finance teams
• Strong internal controls and audit discipline
• Long-term career stability in essential infrastructure

For professionals in Rwanda and the wider region, this role can serve as a springboard into regional or global finance roles.

 

Company Values and Work Culture

ContourGlobal operates on clearly defined values:

• “We” is our greatest asset
• Respect and protection of the environment
• Integrity and transparency
• Entrepreneurial thinking
• Commitment to doing things right

Working at ContourGlobal

Employees benefit from:

• A multicultural, cross-border work environment
• Empowerment and ownership of responsibilities
• Merit-based rewards and competitive compensation
• A mission-driven approach to sustainable energy

The company is also committed to equal employment opportunities and diversity.

 

How to Apply Strategically (Practical Advice)

To stand out for this role:

1. Tailor your CV to highlight AP, ERP, and P2P experience
2. Quantify achievements (e.g., invoice volumes handled, improvements made)
3. Emphasize experience with audits, reconciliations, and compliance
4. Show familiarity with tax handling and controls
5. Keep your application clear, concise, and professional

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this role suitable for early-career accountants?

Yes, especially for those with 2–4 years of AP or general accounting experience.

Is SAP experience mandatory?

Preferred but not mandatory. Strong ERP experience is essential.

Does this role involve audits?

Yes. Accurate records and reconciliations support internal and external audits.

Is this a long-term position?

Yes. Energy infrastructure projects require stable finance teams.

Is this role open to non-Rwandans?

Eligibility depends on company policy and work authorization.

 

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Final Thoughts and Strong Call to Action

The AP Accountant role at ContourGlobal in Kigali is a high-responsibility, high-impact position within one of Africa’s most strategic energy projects. It offers stability, global exposure, and the chance to contribute to sustainable development.

If you meet the qualifications and are ready to grow your accounting career in a world-class organization, this opportunity deserves your serious attention.

👉 Bookmark this page, share it with qualifiedprofessionals, and explore more verified job opportunities on Theos Careers tostay ahead.

 

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