Rwanda Leads East Africa’s Electric Transition for Public Transport, Paving the Way for Health and Climate Benefits as COP29 Approaches

Kigali, Rwanda, November 2024 – In a landmark decision, the Rwandan government has announced that, from January 2025, only electric motorbikes will be eligible for new public transport registrations in the City of Kigali. This forward-thinking policy, aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality, marks a significant step in East Africa’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) and is set to position Kigali as a leading city in sustainable public transport. This development comes at a time when global attention is focused on climate solutions ahead of the COP29 summit.

The government’s decision aligns with a broader movement towards e-mobility in East Africa, where cities like Nairobi and Kampala are also exploring EV policies to tackle climate change and reduce reliance on imported fuels. Notably, public health experts have underscored the link between transportation emissions and respiratory illnesses, with air pollution being one of the leading causes of premature deaths across Africa. Transitioning to EVs for public transport holds the potential to significantly reduce harmful emissions, improve urban air quality, and support climate targets across the region.

Kigali is already home to a number of EV players, of which Spiro is by far the largest. As Africa’s leading electric vehicle company, Spiro has deployed 21,000 electric bikes rapidly expanding across 7 African countries, making it a key player in the continent’s shift towards cleaner, more sustainable transportation. With its manufacturing operations now based in Nairobi, Spiro is prepared to scale production and meet the anticipated demand in Rwanda by delivering additional EV motorbikes to Kigali and offering them at a significantly reduced price.

“We are excited to support Kigali’s journey towards an all-electric public transport fleet,” said Kaushik Burman, CEO of Spiro. “With Spiro’s EKON electric bike, designed for East African cities and now available for just $500, we’re helping make the switch to electric not only environmentally responsible but also economically viable. This transition is essential not only for Rwanda’s climate goals but for the health and well-being of its communities.”

The economic case for electric motorbikes has become increasingly compelling. An independent study of boda boda riders in nearby Kampala found that operating costs for electric motorbikes are up to 60% lower than for petrol-powered bikes, thanks to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. With its EKON bike now offered at a fraction of the original cost, Spiro is enabling boda boda riders in Kigali to transition to EVs affordably, benefiting both their livelihoods and the environment.

The EKON bike is designed specifically for urban environments like Kigali, with a robust build to handle the city’s hilly terrain and a battery range of up to 100 km on a single charge. In anticipation of the new EV-only registration policy, Spiro has launched Operation PLEDGE-NETZERO, a comprehensive support plan to help boda boda riders make the switch seamlessly. This includes not only affordable pricing but also widespread access to battery-swapping stations across Kigali, which are part of Spiro’s established network in East Africa.

With COP29 on the horizon, Rwanda’s decision demonstrates the proactive role African nations are taking in the global climate dialogue, offering a blueprint for sustainable urban transportation. Spiro’s commitment to making electric mobility accessible and affordable aligns with Rwanda’s vision for a cleaner, healthier future. As other East African countries consider similar policies, Kigali’s journey could inspire a continent-wide shift towards greener public transport solutions.

For Press Inquiries: Lee Breheny Chief Communications Officer, Equitane +44 07590 847020

Notes to Editors: Spiro is Africa’s largest electric vehicle company, with over 21,000 electric bikes rapidly expanding across 7 countries and a mission to promote sustainable transportation solutions. With its EKON bike manufactured in Nairobi and specifically designed for East African cities, Spiro offers a robust and reliable solution for the urban transport sector. The company’s innovative battery-swapping stations provide a seamless experience for EV riders, making it easier than ever to transition to electric mobility.