Motorcycles Account for the Largest Share of Air Pollution Emissions
The Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) has conducted a study on sources of emissions that pollute the atmosphere, including motor vehicles, industries, and other sectors.
The study revealed that in 2018, vehicles contributed 57% of all emissions that degrade air quality.
Celestin Hakizimana, Head of Air Quality Monitoring at REMA, explained that motorcycles are now the leading culprits among vehicles that release harmful emissions.
He stated: “We see a significant share from motorcycles, which have now risen to take the top spot among vehicles that pollute the most. Looking at the numbers, we currently have around 200,000 motorcycles on the road. Out of all 380,000 registered vehicles in Rwanda, more than half are motorcycles. This means that of all vehicular emissions, motorcycles account for about 48%.”
Eng. Aimé Ndikumana, a vehicle mechanic, also confirmed to RBA (which reported this story) that engines without emission-control systems are a major cause of pollution.
He explained: “Motorcycles contribute heavily to air pollution, much more than cars, because their design lacks emission-reduction systems. A motorcycle engine simply channels smoke directly through the exhaust pipe without filtering, which makes them highly polluting.”
On the other hand, experts highlight that this problem can be mitigated through proper vehicle inspection and maintenance, as the government has been encouraging owners to comply.
“Some owners neglect regular maintenance as a way to save money, but that is exactly what worsens emissions. That’s why emission testing will serve as a reminder for owners to take maintenance seriously, because poor servicing of a single vehicle can create a serious pollution problem.”
Given the growing data on vehicle-related emissions, the Government of Rwanda is set to launch a program to test all vehicles cars and motorcycles alike for harmful exhaust gases, with the aim of protecting public health.
“We already have inspection centers: one in Kigali, another in Rwamagana for the Eastern Province, one in Musanze for the Northern and part of the Western Province, and another in Huye for the Southern and part of the Western Province. Through the Irembo e-platform, vehicle owners can now access two services: the usual police-issued roadworthiness inspection and this new advanced emission testing service.”
Rwanda has also prioritized the expansion of electric vehicles for public and private transport in both urban and rural areas. According to projections, this shift is expected to reduce emissions by up to 38%, in line with the Paris Agreement commitments on environmental protection and climate change mitigation.
REMA further clarified that vehicle owners whose current inspection certificates are still valid but nearing expiration must also undergo emission testing. They will pay for both services,roadworthiness inspection and emission testing and receive a certificate confirming that their vehicle meets emission standards. If a vehicle fails the test, it will not be allowed back on the road until corrected.