Kigali’s public transport system is on the brink of a revolutionary transformation, with the government launching a new, efficient, and eco-friendly model beginning on 2 December 2025, starting with a six-month trial period for the Downtown Kimironko route.
The Cabinet meeting held on 28 November approved a comprehensive overhaul aimed at addressing long-standing challenges in urban mobility while aligning with Rwanda’s ambitious sustainability goals.
This overhaul promises to enhance the reliability, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of public transport, setting the stage for future expansion into other urban areas.
The reform builds on earlier commitments made during the 18th National Umushyikirano Council in February 2023, when the government pledged to strengthen Kigali’s transport system with over 300 new buses.
With government-backed subsidies, operators have already acquired around 200 buses, all of which have now arrived in the city.
Pilot tests on the Kabuga – Nyabugogo corridor in May 2025 helped inform the new model by assessing the feasibility of non waiting, high-frequency bus operations.
Key features of the new system
The new public transport model, spearheaded by the Ministry of Infrastructure and managed by Ecofleet Solutions Ltd, a newly established state-owned company, will introduce a much needed shift in how Kigalians experience commuting.
The initial rollout will focus on the Downtown–Sonatubes Remera corridor before expanding to other key routes, including Sonatubes–Gahanga and Nyabugogo–Gishushu.
Unlike the previous model, where private operators prioritised profit over service, the new system will emphasise service quality, punctuality, and passenger satisfaction.
One of the standout features of the system is a modern traffic management framework that will track buses in real time.
This technology will ensure buses adhere to set timetables, providing passengers with regular and timely service across all routes.
With real-time monitoring, buses will be dispatched to areas where they are most needed, thus reducing delays and improving the overall travel experience.
Ecofleet Solutions will oversee all transport operations in Kigali, taking charge of route planning, bus deployment, and daily service management.
While private operators will still own buses and employ drivers, Ecofleet will handle f inancial management, performance evaluation, and monitoring.
This shift will eliminate incentives for operators to delay departures or overload buses issues that have historically caused frustration for commuters.
The new system will also feature centralised digital fare collection, allowing passengers to use bank cards, mobile money, and Ecofleet’s Tap & Go system.
Electrification at the core of the reform A significant component of the new transport model is the emphasis on electrification.
Rwanda is taking bold steps towards achieving a fully electric bus fleet by the end of 2026. Initially, Ecofleet will introduce 190 electric buses, with an additional 110 leased from private operators.
These buses will be deployed along key corridors, including the Downtown–Sonatubes Remera route, with plans to expand to other major routes in the future.
The introduction of electric buses will support Rwanda’s green agenda and contribute to reducing carbon emissions, in line with the goals outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.
Improved passenger experience
The new system is not only about technology and efficiency; it also focuses on improving the commuter experience.
One of the main grievances in Kigali’s current public transport system has been long waiting times and overcrowded buses.
Under the new model, buses will depart within ten minutes of arriving at a terminal, and there will be no more than a three-minute wait at regular stops.
Additionally, dedicated public bus lanes have been introduced, ensuring faster travel times. The new system has been widely welcomed by residents, who have praised the model, noting that tackling overcrowding and reducing waiting times has significantly enhanced the travel experience.
The Minister of State for Infrastructure, Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, recently emphasised that fares will not change during the trial period, urging residents to take advantage of the improved system. “Buses will be cleaner, safer, and more reliable,” he said.
Authorities are closely monitoring the trial to assess the model’s effectiveness and address any challenges that may arise.
If successful, the system will be expanded across the city, potentially transforming the way Kigalians travel and setting a precedent for other cities in Rwanda.
