NAIROBI, Kenya- Starting next year, Rwanda will stop the registration of petrol-driven motorbike taxis, marking a significant step toward a greener Kigali.
This new policy, set to take effect in January, is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting the use of cleaner, electric-powered alternatives in the bustling capital.
The decision applies exclusively to Kigali’s motorbike taxis, a primary mode of public transport in the city.
“The goal is to promote the use of cleaner, more efficient energy and reduce gas emissions,” Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore shared with AFP.
The government’s electrification incentives—cheaper charging rates and tax breaks for e-bike battery producers—underline the country’s commitment to an environmentally conscious public transport system.
Currently, Rwanda boasts around 110,000 motorbikes, with about 30,000 located in Kigali and 70,000 used as taxis.
Rwandan e-bike companies, like SAFI Universal Link, are already hailing the policy shift.
“This policy not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also demonstrates the progress made in building supportive infrastructure for e-mobility in Rwanda,” noted Eve Kayiranga, SAFI’s manager.
As companies scale up their e-bike offerings, the new policy could accelerate infrastructure development for e-mobility across Rwanda.
The transition to e-bikes is proving popular among drivers, too. Alfonse Mbarabuceye, 32, has seen his income jump by 50pc since he made the switch to electric two years ago.
“It has significantly reduced the cost of maintaining the bike, as all I have to do now is change its battery once or twice a day,” he shared.
With less fuel dependency and lower maintenance costs, drivers are embracing e-bikes as a profitable choice.
As Kigali leads the way with electric motorbike taxis, Rwanda is setting an example in sustainable urban mobility.
This bold step highlights how policies that align environmental goals with local economic benefits can drive a cleaner and more efficient future for urban transport.
