The Ministry of Infrastructure has identified 224 potential sites for new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, aiming to tackle the growing gap between EV adoption and available infrastructure.
The move follows a sharp rise in EV usage—from just 19 vehicles in 2020 to over 500 by the end of 2023, and now reportedly more than 5,000.
Despite the progress, only 24 public charging stations were available nationwide as of August 2024. That leaves the country with an EV-to-charger ratio of over 208 vehicles per charger, far above the global standard of 10–15 EVs per charger recommended for reliable access and reduced congestion.
If all 224 proposed stations are developed, the total would rise to 248—bringing the ratio down to about 20 EVs per charger, a significant improvement but still short of global benchmarks.
“We’re excited to see EVs growing in Rwanda, but the lack of chargers and enough qualified mechanics is a daily headache,” said Eric Mukunzi, an EV owner in Kigali. “Sometimes I wait hours just to charge before I drive upcountry, they also need to be installed in all districts, across the country not just in Kigali”
To encourage private investment, the government is offering incentives including tax exemptions and electricity subsidies. Expanding the charging network is seen as crucial to supporting Rwanda’s clean energy goals and improving user experience.
