By the end of 2025, every district in Rwanda will have air quality monitoring stations, according to the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA).
Currently, there are 16 operational stations across 13 districts, with plans to install at least 26 additional stations to cover the entire country. REMA stated that assessments are underway to determine optimal locations, and some districts may receive more than one station based on specific needs. All stations will provide real-time air quality data.
Air Pollution Sources and Recommendations
Research identifies vehicle emissions as the primary source of air pollution in Kigali, with other contributors including industrial emissions, charcoal cookstoves, and agricultural waste burning. Pollutant levels are higher during the dry season, particularly during rush hours, and tend to drop at night.
REMA recommends measures to reduce pollution, such as; Using public transportation, carpooling, or cycling, Planting trees and promoting proper waste disposal, Avoiding open burning and maintaining vehicles to limit emissions, Supporting clean energy initiatives.
Deborah Nibagwire, an Air Quality Specialist at REMA, highlighted the link between rapid urbanization and increased air pollution, emphasizing the associated public health risks, including cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses. Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, are particularly affected.
Legislative and Strategic Efforts
MP Egide Nkuranga emphasized the urgency of addressing air pollution, noting its significant impact on public health and the environment. He pointed out that motorcycles, especially petrol-powered ones, are major contributors to air pollution in urban areas. The government has been called to intensify regulatory measures to protect citizens.
Since 2017, Rwanda has implemented an air quality and climate change monitoring project to establish a monitoring network and enhance understanding of local emissions. This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s long-term Vision 2050, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality.
Transitioning to Electric Vehicles
In the short term, Rwanda plans to reduce emissions by 38% by 2030. Electric vehicles (EVs) are projected to contribute to 9% of the potential energy-related emissions reductions under the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
To support this transition, the government extended a zero-rated import duty on electric and hybrid vehicles through the fiscal year 2024/25. Initially introduced in April 2021, this policy aims to accelerate the adoption of EVs and attract investment in the growing electric mobility sector.
These efforts reflect Rwanda’s commitment to combating air pollution and climate change while safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable development.