Since its launch in 2016, Zipline Rwanda has grown to make over 600 deliveries daily. Initially focused on transporting urgent blood supplies, it now delivers more than 200 types of medicines across ten product categories. Its operations are based in Muhanga (Shyogwe Sector) and Kayonza, with nearly 35% of deliveries comprising livestock semen.
At a recent Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition in Kigali, Zipline introduced its new Platform 2 (P2) drones, which will begin operating in cities from 2026. The drones are expected to support health services, restaurants, businesses, and other tech-driven enterprises.
President Paul Kagame, highlighting Zipline's impact, said: "This technology does not only save time; it also saves lives. Our collaboration has been very successful, and together we are exploring how to extend it to urban deliveries."
Next-generation technology
The P2 drones are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to operate efficiently in densely populated areas. Unlike traditional drones, they can take off vertically without a launcher, navigate tight spaces, and safely lower cargo using a precision tether system.
Kayitana Pierre, CEO of Zipline Rwanda, explained: 'It took us ten years to develop this drone. It is reliable, easy to operate, and capable of navigating cities with high-rise buildings.'
Each drone features two main wings and four auxiliary wings for lift, flies at speeds up to 100 km/h, and operates at altitudes between 100 and 400 metres. They can continue Zipline's legacy of medical deliveries while handling heavier cargo for commercial purposes.
The new drones are capable of multi-stop deliveries, allowing them to drop off goods in one location, such as Remera, and then continue directly to another destination, like Kanombe, without returning to the hub.
The technology has been tested in Dallas, Texas, in partnership with Walmart, delivering goods to residents. A single drone can carry enough food to feed 12 people, with plans to expand its load capacity and range.
Zipline plans to introduce these drones in Kigali for the first time in Africa, ensuring full technical familiarisation before launch. The company is currently seeking regulatory approvals for operations in Rwanda.
The drones will be integrated with a mobile application, allowing users to select and pay for products, which are then automatically packed and delivered by the drone.
Currently, 50 local tech specialists are working on the P2 project, in addition to 150 staff operating existing drones. While older drones cost over 20 million Rwandan francs, the new P2 models will be priced lower to make services more accessible.
'We aim to make drones widely available to meet growing demand. This is just the beginning of a new era in urban delivery in Rwanda," Kayitana stated.
Since starting in Rwanda, Zipline has grown internationally, operating 30 sites across countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, Japan, European nations, and the U.S. states of Arkansas and Utah.
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