South Korea Donates Electric Buses to Rwanda to Boost Public Transportation

The government of South Korea has generously donated two large electric buses to Rwanda, specifically for use in public transportation in the city of Kigali. These buses, valued at approximately at 1 million dollars, were officially handed over on October 2, 2024.

These buses are unique as they are designed to accommodate passengers of all sizes, with 29 seated seats and additional standing space. They also feature routes specifically catered to individuals with disabilities, making it easier for them to access public transportation.

Charles Kalinda, Head of Policy and Planning in the Ministry of Infrastructure, highlighted the strong cooperation between Rwanda and South Korea in various development initiatives, particularly in the public transport sector. Kalinda emphasized the importance of reducing air pollution through the adoption of electric vehicles, noting that this donation aligns with Rwanda’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation practices.

Rwanda aims to have 20% of passenger vehicles running on electricity by 2030, but Kalinda acknowledged that there is still much work to be done in increasing the adoption of electric cars. He stressed the need for both the government and private sector to invest in and promote electric vehicles to combat air pollution effectively.

The Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) is currently collecting data and monitoring the performance of electric vehicles already in use, laying the groundwork for further expansion of sustainable transportation options in Rwanda.