Green mission - Rwanda powers up electric transport to combat climate change, secure sustainable future

"Rwanda is pushing ahead with public transport reform, specifically targeting the electrification of motorcycle and bus fleets to curb pollution and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Footage filmed in Kigali on Thursday shows residents commuting on electric vehicles - from modern eco-friendly buses to battery-powered motorbikes - supported by a growing network of convenient charging stations across the city. The shift to electric vehicles is expected not only to address environmental concerns but also to lower transport costs and improve daily life for local communities. "The cost of providing services with electric buses is reduced by 50 to 70 per cent compared to diesel buses [...] this allows us to provide high-quality services at a lower cost," explained Aubin Rukera, managing director of Ecofleet. On a national level, Rwanda has advanced the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), crafted to serve the country's climate and humanitarian goals. "This approach is not intended solely to protect Rwanda, but also to contribute to global efforts against climate change," pointed out Gashumba Damascene, executive director of the Organisation for Environment and Rural Development (REDO). The government has reaffirmed this stance, aiming for a full shift to electric vehicles in Kigali and encouraging citizens to use public transport. Rwanda has rolled out several green initiatives to accelerate the transition to clean transport, including allowing only electric motorcycle taxis in Kigali since January 2025 and cutting import taxes on electric and hybrid vehicles, according to media reports. Rwanda's initial NDC commits to cutting emissions by 38 per cent by 2030, while a revised version has set to reduce emissions by 53 per cent in 2035, making it one of Africa's most ambitious actors in tackling climate change."