The announcement follows recent findings that Rwanda's air quality is deteriorating due to PM2.5 particles emitted mainly from motor vehicles, with motorcycles alone responsible for 47% of harmful emissions.
Under a Ministerial Order issued on August 25, 2025, motor vehicles used for public passenger transport, cargo, driving schools, school buses, ambulances, and petrol-powered machinery in construction and agriculture will receive inspection certificates valid for six months. All other motor vehicles will be issued certificates valid for one year.
Owners of vehicles that fail inspection will be required to fix defects and present their vehicles for re-testing before being cleared.
The regulation sets a range of fines depending on the severity of the violation. The heaviest penalty, Frw 5 million, applies to those who ignore an order to stop polluting activities. Unauthorised polluting activities attract a fine of Frw 3 million, while breaching rules on air quality preservation is punishable by Frw 2 million. For minor violations of emissions rules, offenders face fines ranging from Frw 25,000 to Frw 1 million, depending on the offence.
In addition, failure to pay fines within seven days will attract an extra 0.5% daily penalty.
Inspection fees have also been set: motorcycles will pay Frw 16,638, small passenger cars Frw 34,940, and medium passenger vehicles or light cargo trucks Frw 51,578, with lower rates for re-inspections.
Officials say the new enforcement regime is part of Rwanda's broader strategy to improve air quality, including incentives for a shift from fuel-powered motorcycles to electric alternatives.
IGIHE
