The Rwandan government has announced fines of up to 5 million francs (Frw) for vehicle owners who fail to comply with new regulations requiring motorized vehicles to undergo emissions and equipment inspections.
The Ministry of Environment said air pollution is worsening in Rwanda due to PM2.5 emissions from motorized vehicles, which pose increasing health risks to the public.
A ministerial order issued August 25, 2025, outlines the inspection requirements. Vehicles covered include public transport vehicles, cargo carriers, training vehicles, commercial service vehicles, emergency vehicles, school buses, and petroleum-powered vehicles used in construction or agriculture. These vehicles will receive six-month certificates, while other vehicles will be certified for a full year.
“If an inspection identifies defects, the vehicle owner must correct them and return for a re-inspection to confirm the issues have been resolved before certification is granted,” the order states.
Administrative penalties are detailed in the order. Violations include:
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Failing to comply with air pollution rules: fines from 25,000 Frw to 5 million Frw depending on severity.
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Conducting unauthorized polluting activities: 3 million Frw.
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Failing to prevent emissions: 2 million to 5 million Frw.
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Failing to report emissions, whether intentional or accidental: 1 million Frw.
Fines must be paid to the Environment and Climate Change Fund within seven days of notification. Late payments accrue a 0.5% daily surcharge.
Statistics show motorcycles contribute 47% of the nation’s vehicle emissions, prompting initiatives to encourage the use of electric motorcycles instead of gasoline-powered models.
Inspection fees vary by vehicle type. Motorcycles pay 16,638 Frw per emissions test, with a reduced re-test fee of 8,319 Frw if corrections are made within two weeks. Passenger vehicles under 3.5 tons with up to eight seats pay 34,940 Frw, or 17,470 Frw for a re-test. Larger vehicles and cargo carriers face fees up to 51,578 Frw, with re-tests at half the initial cost. Other motorized vehicles used for commercial purposes pay 49,914 Frw, or 24,957 Frw for a re-test.
The Ministry said the measures aim to improve air quality and public health while maintaining current fees for emissions testing and vehicle inspections.
