Truck drivers urge authorities to review restrictions impacting their livelihoods amid ongoing infrastructure developments.
Truck drivers in Kigali have raised concerns regarding the current restrictions that limit their movement on city roads during specific hours. The government has implemented these measures to reduce traffic congestion and accidents, but drivers argue that the rules are detrimental to their livelihoods.
Jean de Dieu Nyarwaya, vice president of a truck drivers’ cooperative in Gozi, Gasabo District, highlighted that trucks are prohibited from using certain roads during peak hours, specifically from 5 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 9 pm. This restriction totals approximately eight hours each day, significantly impacting the delivery of goods.
“The restrictions are hurting our livelihoods,” Nyarwaya stated. “They cause delays in deliveries and lead to financial losses for both drivers and vehicle owners.” He emphasized that the policy particularly affects those transporting essential goods such as construction materials and trade commodities into Kigali.
Currently, designated stopping areas for trucks include Rwandex and Kwa Carlos on the road to Gatenga, as well as Rugende in Gasabo District. Nyarwaya explained that while the intention behind the restrictions is to alleviate congestion in the city center, the reality is that trucks coming from various regions, including Rusizi, often face long delays, which halts operations and reduces income.
“What we ask is that the movement of these vehicles be eased,” he added. “We pay taxes, but when our vehicles are stopped for long hours, the taxes don’t stop — which means the driver and owner both lose money.” This situation is particularly challenging for drivers who work under contracts with truck owners, as they are still required to meet financial obligations despite reduced trips.
Impact on Goods and Logistics
Noel Nkurikiye, Secretary General of the Rwanda Professional Truck Drivers’ Union, echoed these sentiments, noting that the restrictions also jeopardize the integrity of temperature-sensitive cargo. The union represents around 400 active members and estimates that there are approximately 6,000 truck drivers across Rwanda.
“Some trucks carry refrigerated containers that need constant power to maintain controlled temperatures,” Nkurikiye explained. “When the vehicle stops for long hours, the energy supply runs out, and the products — like fish or medical items — risk spoiling.” He also called for improved facilities at designated truck stops, including charging stations for refrigerated trucks, restaurants, and toilets.
Nkurikiye pointed out that drivers often spend entire days or nights at these stops, incurring additional expenses. “If you live in Kicukiro and get stopped in Rugende, you’re forced to spend the night there,” he said.
During a recent session with the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security, Fulgence Dusabimana, Vice Mayor in charge of Urbanisation and Infrastructure in the City of Kigali, defended the truck movement restrictions as necessary safety measures. “This activity is carried out with police assistance to ensure road safety during peak hours when traffic is heaviest,” he stated, acknowledging the economic side effects of the policy.
“We recognize that this can somehow affect the economy — families and businesses may not get what they need on time — but it’s a temporary measure,” Dusabimana added. He also mentioned plans to invest in deviation roads for trucks, contingent on funding availability, to allow for smoother movement without disrupting passenger traffic.
Calls for Faster Infrastructure Development
Nkurikiye urged for the expedited construction of the Kigali Ring Road, a project anticipated to alleviate congestion by diverting heavy trucks away from central city roads. The Ministry of Infrastructure has indicated that the ring road will connect all national roads serving Kigali and link to the upcoming international airport in Bugesera. However, while feasibility studies and preliminary designs have been completed, no timeline for construction has been announced.
As discussions continue, truck drivers remain hopeful that their concerns will be addressed, allowing for a more efficient and economically viable transportation system in Kigali.
Source: The New Times
Key Points
- Truck drivers in Kigali face restrictions on movement during peak hours.
- The limitations are causing financial losses and delays in deliveries.
- Temperature-sensitive cargo is at risk due to prolonged stops.
- Calls for improved facilities at truck stops have been made.
- Authorities acknowledge the economic impact but consider restrictions temporary.
- Expedited construction of the Kigali Ring Road is urged as a long-term solution.
Sources: The New Times
