In a significant of improving services in Kigali’s public transport system, the City of Kigali hosted a press conference on March 12, 2024 where 18 new public transport operators unveilled. The Press conference was chaired by the City of Kigali Mayor Dusengiyumva Samuel, Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana and Minister of Local Government Musabyimana Jean Claude.

Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore announced that effective March 16, 2024, the Rwandan Government will cease subsidies for public transport, a move aimed at reallocating funds to reinforce other community services. Minister Musabyimana Jean Clade elaborated that the financial resources might support like Girinka program, combat malnutrition, and enhance school feeding initiatives among other projects.

At the Press Conference, the City of Kigali Mayor Dusengiyumva announced the accreditation of 18 new transport operators comprising 14 companies and 4 individuals who are allowed to do transport across seven key corridors. This move is complemented by the acquisition of 200 new buses, as the government’s commitment to improve the city’s public transport services.

“We anticipate that the introduction of multiple operators per route will foster a competitive environment, ultimately reducing waiting time at bus parks and bus stops. Our goal is to enhance the efficiency of public transport, encouraging more residents to utilize this service,” stated Mayor Dusengiyumva.

The City of Kigali has launched new transportation routes. However, certain routes remain unassigned to any transport operators. Officials have declared that interested parties looking to do transport in these routes must request the authorization from both the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) and the City of Kigali.  During the press conference officials reminded residents who walk with public buses to use tap and go cards in order to go cashless as the aim of the country.

Afther the press conference, RURA announced new transport fares within the City of Kigali and upcountry free of Government subsidy. For now there are more than 500 buses that do public transport within the city of Kigali

For more pictures: https://www.flickr.com/photos/city_of_kigali/albums/72177720315393546/