Ecofleet Solutions Aims to Boost Public Transport Efficiency in Kigali
The City of Kigali is set to enhance its public transport system with the introduction of a new state-owned company, Ecofleet Solutions. This initiative aims to increase the share of bus transport from the current low level of approximately 25 percent to a more sustainable standard.
Fulgence Dusabimana, the Vice Mayor in charge of Urbanisation and Infrastructure in Kigali, made this announcement during a Senate Committee meeting on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security held on October 17, 2025. The session focused on evaluating measures to reduce road accidents and improve overall transport efficiency.
Addressing Urban Mobility Challenges
Dusabimana emphasized that large buses are crucial for easing urban mobility and reducing the reliance on smaller vehicles and motorcycles. He stated, “The more people feel comfortable using large buses, the more we will reduce the pressure from small-capacity vehicles and motorcycles. These won’t be banned, but they’ll naturally decrease in use as the bus system improves.”
He pointed out that in developed countries, a successful public transport system is characterized by at least 70 percent of commuters using large buses. Currently, Kigali’s bus usage stands at about 25 percent, which Dusabimana described as a significant challenge that Ecofleet Solutions aims to address.
Operational Goals of Ecofleet Solutions
Ecofleet Solutions is preparing to launch its operations with the goal of improving service quality and operational efficiency in Kigali’s public transport sector. Dusabimana acknowledged that the current transport setup, where only 25 percent of commuters use buses, indicates low efficiency. He expressed confidence that Ecofleet will enhance this by providing reliable and timely service.
The company is expected to commence operations in November, marking a significant step towards improving public transport in the city.
Concerns Over Current Transport System
During the Senate meeting, Senator Evode Uwizeyimana raised concerns about the existing public transport system, which heavily relies on private operators. He argued that government involvement in public transport is essential. Uwizeyimana noted that private operators, who have taken loans to purchase buses, are unlikely to allow their vehicles to run empty due to fuel costs, leading to delays at bus stops.
He suggested that if passengers can rely on fixed schedules, public confidence in the transport system will increase. The government-backed Ecofleet Solutions is expected to operate on fixed timetables, ensuring timely departures regardless of passenger numbers, thereby addressing current inefficiencies.
Fleet Management and Future Prospects
On October 8, Evariste Rugigana, Director General of the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), informed Senators that Ecofleet is expected to manage a fleet of 200 buses, which were procured by the government between late 2023 and early 2024. Unlike private operators, Ecofleet will operate on fixed schedules, which is anticipated to eliminate common delays and improve service reliability for residents of Kigali.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance public transport in the city, reduce congestion, and improve road safety. The introduction of Ecofleet Solutions is seen as a pivotal move towards achieving a more efficient and reliable public transport system in Kigali.
Key Points
- Kigali aims to increase bus transport usage from 25% to a more sustainable level.
- Ecofleet Solutions is a new state-owned company set to improve public transport efficiency.
- The company will operate on fixed schedules to enhance reliability and reduce delays.
- A fleet of 200 buses has been procured for Ecofleet's operations.
- The initiative is part of broader efforts to reduce congestion and improve road safety.
Sources: Kigali banks on new state company to increase commuters using public buses
