Private bus operators in Kigali are responding with both optimism and concern as the city rolls out its new service-led public transport model, which requires buses to follow fixed schedules for better reliability.
Under the reform, a new state-owned company, Ecofleet Solutions, will oversee operations. Private operators can lease their buses to the government, but only vehicles in good condition — specifically those less than eight years old — qualify. This requirement has left several operators worried.
KBS CEO Charles Ngarambe said his company has already started operating under the new framework and believes government involvement will help fix long-standing challenges such as delays and operational inefficiencies. He noted that partnership between the public and private sectors should improve services in the long run.
However, only 30% of KBS’s 76 buses were accepted into the leasing model, mostly excluding older buses. Ngarambe says this has triggered immediate issues because the rejected buses still have bank loans and staff attached to them. Some drivers currently lack work, though he expects demand to rise as routes expand.
Royal Express CEO Nilla Munezero echoed similar views — supporting the model but acknowledging transition difficulties. He said real outcomes will only be clear after several days of operation as operators adjust to new routes, traffic patterns and outdated traffic lights. He noted that COVID-19’s financial effects are still being felt, and many buses rejected during selection still have outstanding loans.
Royal Express had 22 of its buses — about 30% of its fleet — approved under the leasing model, and the company is now restructuring its workforce, retaining mostly drivers.
The new transport system, launching Tuesday, December 2, was approved by Cabinet last week. It replaces the old net-cost model, which struggled with fragmented management and inconsistent service.
According to State Minister for Infrastructure Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, operators must meet several strict standards — covering maintenance, fuel, operations and cleanliness — to qualify. Failure in any category disqualifies a bus or operator, ensuring only well-maintained fleets join the new model.