This was revealed by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, while presenting to the Chamber of Deputies the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali, a measure that took effect on January 1, 2025.
The announcement was made during a parliamentary session that focused on current environmental challenges and how the Rwandan government is addressing them.
MP Egide Nkuranga, who raised the issues to the plenary, praised the government's efforts to combat air pollution. He highlighted that in 2022, Rwanda emitted 1,400 Gigatons of greenhouse gases, an increase from over 1,300 Gigatons in 2018. Motorcycles accounted for 47.4% of these emissions, releasing 709 Gigatons.
Despite commending the initiative, the MP raised concerns about how motorcyclists transitioning to electric motorcycles would sustain their livelihoods, whether the changes would disrupt transportation, and what other measures the government has in place to ensure environmental preservation without inconveniencing citizens.
Minister Gasore reassured that petrol-powered motorcycles already licensed for commercial use would retain their licenses and could continue operating, with annual renewals. However, these motorcycles will be required to undergo "contrôle technique."
He clarified that petrol motorcycles will still be allowed into the country for private use, especially in areas without reliable electricity infrastructure.
The Minister emphasized the importance of the decision, citing the rise in air-polluting emissions and its health impacts, such as a 41% increase in respiratory diseases between 2008 and 2019.
Available data indicates a significant increase in deaths caused by respiratory illnesses linked to air pollution. In 2012, 2,227 people died from such illnesses, a figure that surged to 9,290 by 2019.
Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore emphasized Rwanda's strong measures to address the issue, including enforcing standards on vehicle emissions and introducing new regulations.
He stated, "We have initiated a program to strengthen vehicle inspection centers by establishing a specialized facility to monitor vehicle emissions. This project is expected to be operational by the end of the year."
A key update involves modernizing the methods used to monitor vehicle emissions, including motorcycles, which were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections. Dr. Gasore highlighted that previously, motorcycle owners only sought inspections when they suspected an issue, but this will no longer be the case.
He said, "Petrol-powered motorcycles will continue to operate, but the new requirement is that they must meet the standards of contrôle technique. For example, if a motorcycle cannot brake effectively or fails to comply with emission standards, it will not be allowed on the road. It's the same principle applied to all vehiclesâ€"every vehicle on the road must meet legal standards. There are no additional burdens; it's simply about adhering to the law."
Overhaul of vehicle inspection systems
Dr. Gasore explained that traditional vehicle inspection methods are also being upgraded. Previously, vehicles were inspected while stationary, with devices inserted into their exhaust pipes to measure emissions. However, this approach failed to provide a complete picture of a vehicle's emissions under different conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving.
"Under the current system, a vehicle may seem fine on flat terrain but emit significant pollutants when ascending. The new system will provide a more accurate analysis of a vehicle's emissions. Vehicles will be placed on rollers that simulate driving conditions, allowing for a realistic assessment of their performance," he explained.
Gasore revealed that vehicle computer systems will be utilized as part of the emissions control strategy. These systems, which already record key metrics, will help identify issues and ensure timely solutions.
Beyond the vehicle inspection program, introduced in 2013, the minister highlighted other efforts to combat air pollution. These include the 2016 law on air quality preservation, 2019 emission standards for vehicles, and the 2021 initiative promoting electric vehicles by offering tax exemptions for electric vehicles, hybrids, and related equipment.
'We have also facilitated investors who show interest in setting up electric vehicle infrastructure by providing land free of charge,' Gasore noted.
The measures have significantly contributed to reducing vehicular emissions. Other steps include advanced air quality testing, improving fuel quality inspections, enhancing vehicle testing laboratories, and empowering garages to address emissions-related issues.
Regarding electric vehicle infrastructure, the minister revealed that an initial assessment indicated the need for over 200 charging stations across the country. Feasibility studies have been conducted, and preliminary sites have been identified for immediate implementation.
On the issue of expired electric batteries, Gasore explained that batteries used in transport for 10 years can be repurposed for energy storage, such as solar power, for another decade.
Rwanda already has a facility capable of handling such processes. He added that, after their lifespan, hazardous chemicals in the batteries are safely extracted, while remaining materials are used to manufacture new batteries.
The government is also exploring retrofitting petrol motorcycles by replacing their engines with batteries. An initial investor managed to convert 80 motorcycles before facing financial constraints, but the government is supporting the project to ensure its expansion.
Rwanda has over 100,000 motorcycles, including 46,000 used for transporting people and goods. Of these, 26,000 operate in Kigali, with more than 6,000 already electric-powered.
IGIHE
