Rwanda Takes Major Step to Combat Air Pollution with New Vehicle Emission Testing Center

The Rwandan government is ramping up efforts to tackle air pollution by launching a new center dedicated to testing vehicle emissions, including motorcycles. This new facility will support the existing vehicle inspection centers and aims to ensure cleaner air for the country.

Speaking to lawmakers on January 7, 2024, Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore highlighted the urgency of the project. He explained that while Rwanda has made progress, the country has yet to meet international standards for clean air. The new emission-testing center will focus on monitoring the pollutants released by vehicles, including motorcycles, which were not previously tested.

"We are enhancing our vehicle inspection system," said Dr. Gasore. "This new center will specifically test emissions from all vehicles, including motorcycles, using modern technology. We expect this project to be fully operational soon."

The new center will not only focus on emissions but will also conduct thorough inspections of vehicles, including tire checks, to ensure they are roadworthy. The center will use advanced technology to monitor how well vehicles perform in different driving conditions, ensuring drivers are aware of potential issues.

A key part of the project will involve installing systems in vehicles that can alert drivers to any problems in real time. Dr. Gasore emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve air quality in Rwanda.

The government has been taking steps to address air pollution for several years. In 2016, a law was enacted to regulate air quality, and in 2019, new emission standards were introduced by the Rwanda Standards Board. These efforts have already begun to make a difference, with a 17% reduction in emissions from transportation since 2018.

Motorcycles are currently the largest source of air pollution in Rwanda, contributing to nearly half of the transportation sector’s emissions. In 2022, motorcycles were responsible for 47% of emissions, equivalent to 709.58 kilotonnes of pollutants.

To further encourage cleaner transportation, the government has announced that starting in January 2025, only electric motorcycles will be allowed to operate in Rwanda. This new regulation will begin in Kigali and expand to other parts of the country by the end of the year.

This bold move demonstrates Rwanda’s commitment to improving air quality and protecting the environment for future generations.