Rwanda’s capital Kigali will have 200 e-buses in operation

The Government of Rwanda has signed an agreement with Vivo Energy and the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) for the supply of over 200 electric buses in Kigali.

In partnership with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Ministry of Infrastructure, and City of Kigali, Vivo Energy Rwanda and RSSB will procure the buses and build a charging and maintenance depot.

Kigala to deploy 200 electric buses

The agreement follows the completion of a feasibility study by Vivo Energy, in conjunction with the Ministry of Infrastructure and the City of Kigali, on the electrification of the public bus fleet in Kigali. The parties will now work towards the implementation of the project, Vivo Energy states in a press note.

Vivo Energy is a oil/energy company headquarters in London. It has 2,600 service stations in 23 countries. They distribute and markets Shell and Engen branded fuels and lubricants to retail and commercial customers in Africa.

Speaking at the signing, Clare Akamanzi, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Development Board said: “It’s always a good thing when you have an investor that’s already doing business in Rwanda and wants to do more. It’s a vote of confidence in the country and the environment. We very much welcome this partnership, which will improve our public transport as Kigali is a fast-growing city. We are committed to making this happen.”

On his part, Hans Paulsen, Executive Vice President East & Southern Africa, Vivo Energy said: “Rwanda has ambitious green development goals that will support the country to counter the effects of climate change on people and the economy. With our partners, we are delighted to be supporting the Government of Rwanda to help Kigali achieve its low-carbon goals and progress its electromobility plans. The introduction of electric buses in Kigali will not only contribute to the development of sustainable transportation but also serve as an exemplary initiative for other cities in Africa to follow.”

Pudence Rubingisa, Lord Mayor, City of Kigali said: “We are truly committed to the success of this project as it will ease public transport in Kigali. Everything that’s required for the seamless delivery and introduction of the electric buses will be in place in the coming months.”

Regis Rugemanshuro, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Social Security Board said: “We are pleased with this partnership to invest in electric buses to improve public transport while prioritising sustainability. Together, we’re committed to enabling a greener future, and ensuring efficient and eco-friendly mobility for all.”