The Government of Rwanda has signed an agreement with Vivo Energy for the supply of over 200 electric buses in Kigali.
In partnership with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Ministry of Infrastructure, City of Kigali and Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), Vivo Energy Rwanda will procure the buses and build a charging and maintenance depot.
The agreement follows the completion of a feasibility study by Vivo Energy, in conjunction with the Ministry of Infrastructure and the City of Kigali, on the electrification of the public bus fleet in Kigali. The parties will now work towards the implementation of the project.
Speaking at the signing, Clare Akamanzi, C.E.O of RDB said, “It’s always a good thing when you have an investor that’s already doing business in Rwanda and wants to do more. It’s a vote of confidence in the country and the environment. We very much welcome this partnership, which will improve our public transport as Kigali is a fast-growing city. We are committed to making this happen.”
On his part, Hans Paulsen, Executive Vice President East & Southern Africa, Vivo Energy said that, “Rwanda has ambitious green development goals that will support the country to counter the effects of climate change on people and the economy. With our partners, we are delighted to be supporting the Government of Rwanda to help Kigali achieve its low-carbon goals and progress its electromobility plans.
The introduction of electric buses in Kigali will not only contribute to the development of sustainable transportation but also serve as an exemplary initiative for other cities in Africa to follow.”
Paulsen also thanked the Government of Rwanda for creating a conducive investment environment and went on to thank all the teams who have worked tirelessly to get to this milestone.
“We are truly committed to the success of this project as it will ease public transport in Kigali. Everything that’s required for the seamless delivery and introduction of the electric buses will be in place in the coming months,” observed Pudence Rubingisa, the Mayor, City of Kigali.
Regis Rugemanshuro, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Social Security Board noted that, “We are pleased with this partnership to invest in electric buses to improve public transport while prioritising sustainability. Together, we’re committed to enabling a greener future, and ensuring efficient and eco-friendly mobility for all.”
