The Government of Rwanda has introduced a mandatory vehicle emissions testing policy targeting non-electric cars and motorbikes in a significant move to combat growing urban air pollution and protect public health.
Approved during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on July 30, the new regulation aims to curb harmful emissions from fossil fuel-powered vehicles, which are the main contributors to air pollution in Kigali and other urban centers.
According to the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), over 60% of air pollutants in Kigali come from vehicle exhaust. These emissions often exceed World Health Organization (WHO) safety limits, posing serious health risks to city residents.
What the Policy Includes, Mandatory emissions tests for all non-electric vehicles and motorbikes, testing fees introduced through a Ministerial Order, High-emission vehicles must either be repaired or face deregistration and Electric vehicles are exempt from the testing fees.
The emissions testing policy is part of Rwanda’s broader environmental goals under, Vision 2050 – Rwanda’s long-term development plan and Paris Climate Agreement – where Rwanda pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030.
The government hopes the policy will, improve air quality, especially in densely populated areas, Reduce health problems caused by air pollution and encourage the switch to electric vehicles, which are already being promoted through incentives and infrastructure investments.
In the same Cabinet meeting, several other initiatives were approved:
Allocation of state land to Africa Health Sciences University (AHSU) for a new Medical Education Campus.
Accreditation of International Covenant College to offer new courses in Digital Media Technology and Early Childhood Development.
Approval of new ambassadors and high commissioners to Rwanda from Egypt, Mali, Lesotho, and Georgia.
