Electric motorcycle investors collaborate with taxi operators to drive Rwanda’s Green mobility shift

Investors dealing in electric motorcycles in Rwanda have begun collaborating with motorbike taxi operators to facilitate access to electric motorcycles that are increasingly in demand on the Rwandan market.

Currently, Rwanda is preparing to phase out licensing for gasoline-powered motorcycles, aiming for an exclusive shift to electric models.

In Kigali, a large proportion of passenger transport relies on gasoline motorcycles, which account for 20% of the city’s daily trips. According to recent data from REMA, the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, these motorcycles contribute significantly to air pollution.

Gasoline motorbike operators are calling for assistance to transition from fuel-powered to electric motorcycles.

While gasoline motorcycles are still prevalent, some riders are beginning to recognize the benefits of electric motorcycles, which are in high demand in Rwanda.

Investors importing and selling electric motorcycles in Rwanda are stepping up to support the government’s green initiative by working closely with low-income motorbike operators, offering them affordable electric motorcycle options, explains Tuyishime Muzamini, operations manager at SIPRO, an electric motorcycle distributor in Rwanda.

The Ministry of Infrastructure recently announced that, starting in early 2025, gasoline motorcycles will no longer receive licenses for public passenger transport in Kigali.

This decision is driven by the goal of reducing air pollution and saving over 23 billion Rwandan francs previously spent on petroleum imports for these motorcycles. In comparison, electric motorcycles will require only 14 billion Rwandan francs annually to maintain operations in the country.