Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, has addressed concerns about the recent decision to phase out non-electric motorcycles in Kigali. He reassured the public that this transition won’t disrupt the transport system or affect the livelihoods of motorcycle riders.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, during a session with members of Parliament, Dr. Gasore explained that the plan, which begins in 2025, is designed to protect the environment and promote sustainable transport.
Deputy Nkuranga Egide raised concerns that removing non-electric motorcycles could cause problems in the city’s transportation system. He pointed out that Kigali’s public transport options are already limited and that non-electric motorcycles are a key part of daily commuting.
In response, Dr. Gasore assured that the decision would not impact those already using non-electric motorcycles for their daily work. “This decision mainly affects new entrants into the motorcycle industry,” he explained. “Current riders using regular motorcycles can continue their work as usual.”
Dr. Gasore also noted that electric motorcycles would become increasingly common in Kigali, as battery exchange stations are being set up across the city. He emphasized that the change is gradual, and current motorcycle owners are not immediately required to switch.
The Minister clarified that non-electric motorcycles would remain in operation until they are no longer usable. When a motorcycle reaches the end of its lifespan, its owner will then need to switch to an electric model.
This transition is part of Rwanda’s long-term strategy to reduce air pollution. “Motorcycles are responsible for 50% of emissions in Kigali,” Dr. Gasore stated. “Switching to electric motorcycles is a step forward in preserving our environment.”
The government began working on this initiative in 2021, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project aims to replace fuel-powered motorcycles with electric ones, significantly reducing carbon emissions and helping protect the environment.
Currently, there are over 100,000 motorcycles in Rwanda, with 46,000 used for transporting people and goods. Of these, 26,000 are based in Kigali. Although electric motorcycles are still in the minority, the number is steadily growing.
Dr. Gasore highlighted the financial benefits of the switch. “Electric motorcycles are cheaper to operate than their fuel-powered counterparts,” he said. “This shift will not only help the environment but also save Rwandans money in the long run.”
Research from the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) has shown that switching to electric motorcycles could save the country up to 9 billion Rwandan Francs every year by reducing the importation of fuel-powered motorcycles.
Despite these benefits, 20% of trips in Kigali are still made on fuel-powered motorcycles. This remains a challenge in the fight against air pollution, but the government is optimistic that the transition to electric motorcycles will lead to cleaner, more sustainable transport in the future.
