UCI World Cycling Championships: Road closures significantly improved Kigali’s Air quality
An analysis by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) has revealed that the temporary closure of major roads in Kigali during the UCI World Cycling Championships had a substantial impact on improving the city’s air quality.
The championships, held from September 22 to 28, 2025, brought together nearly one thousand cyclists from around the world. To facilitate the races, several main roads in Kigali were closed, while alternative routes were designated for passenger vehicles and heavy trucks were redirected. This unprecedented shift in traffic patterns created a rare opportunity to study how reducing vehicle emissions directly affects air quality.
According to REMA’s report, levels of PM 2.5,fine particles in the air that are harmful to human health dropped by up to 45% on fully closed routes. On alternative routes, pollution fell by 30–35%, while in non-race areas changes were minimal, highlighting the direct link between reduced traffic and cleaner air.
Throughout race week, air monitoring stations consistently recorded cleaner air, with far fewer extreme pollution events compared to the baseline. On closed roads, midday pollution levels stayed below 30 µg/m³, a remarkable improvement from the usual 47–50 µg/m³. The study also showed that traffic restrictions not only improved air quality during race hours but created residual benefits that lasted into the evening.
“These results are clear evidence that cutting down on vehicle emissions immediately improves the air we breathe,” said Juliet Kabera, Director General of REMA.
She added that during the championships, Kigali’s air quality reached a moderate level considered acceptable under WHO air quality guidelines. Kabera encouraged Rwandans to play their part in sustaining these gains- y properly maintaining their vehicles, embracing more sustainable transport options such as public transit, cycling, and walking, and avoiding unnecessary car trips.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Environment, through REMA, rolled out an enhanced vehicle emissions testing program, underscoring Rwanda’s commitment to cleaner air, better public health, and sustainable development. REMA emphasized that the results observed during the championships reinforce the importance of sustainable urban mobility for Kigali, a city that continues to expand.
“Promoting cycling, public transport, and walking is key to reducing pollution, protecting public health, and making Kigali a healthier and more livable city,” the report stated.
To monitor conditions during race week, REMA deployed 10 air quality monitoring stations across different parts of Kigali, including Gacuriro, Rusororo, Mont Kigali, Gikondo, Nyarutarama, Kibagabaga, Kimironko, Nyabugogo, and Kimihurura (RDB).
Beyond these, REMA operates additional monitoring stations across the country. Citizens are encouraged to follow real-time updates via aq.rema.gov.rw to stay informed about the air they breathe and make healthier lifestyle choices.