The Ministry of Infrastructure has called on residents to increasingly use public transport, especially buses, as part of wider measures to respond to rising fuel prices and improve urban mobility across the country.
The appeal comes after a recent increase in fuel prices, which has driven up petrol costs, while diesel—commonly used in public transport—has remained relatively stable. Authorities say this situation provides an opportunity to encourage greater reliance on buses as a more efficient and cost-effective transport option.
Officials argue that shifting from private vehicles to mass public transport will help reduce fuel consumption, ease traffic congestion, and improve travel efficiency in urban centres.
Dedicated bus lanes introduced in Kigali
In a major transport adjustment, sections of key roads in Kigali have been designated for exclusive or priority use by buses during peak hours.
The system prioritises public transport between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM in the morning, and between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM in the evening, when commuter traffic is highest. During these hours, buses are given priority access, while private vehicles share remaining road space or use alternative routes.
City authorities say the arrangement is intended to reduce delays, improve punctuality of public transport, and enhance overall traffic flow in the capital.
Government urges shift in transport habits
The Ministry of Infrastructure has described the increased use of buses as a practical solution to rising fuel costs and urban congestion challenges.
In a public message, the ministry encouraged residents to adopt public transport as a daily habit, noting that dedicated bus lanes are designed to ensure faster and more reliable journeys.
Authorities emphasized that the measure is part of a broader strategy to promote efficient, affordable and sustainable urban transport systems.
Private vehicle users encouraged to switch to buses
City officials have also urged private car owners to consider parking their vehicles and using buses for daily commuting, particularly during peak hours.
The City of Kigali explained that alternative road networks remain available for private motorists who do not wish to use bus-priority corridors.
Officials further encouraged the use of designated parking facilities where commuters can safely leave their vehicles and connect to bus services for the rest of their journey. Key parking and interchange points in areas such as Kabuga and Remera were cited as examples of locations designed to support this approach.
Authorities say this model is expected to reduce congestion in the city centre while improving mobility for both private and public transport users.
Part of broader sustainable transport strategy
The initiative is aligned with Rwanda’s broader transport policy aimed at promoting cleaner, more efficient, and cost-effective mobility systems, including a gradual shift toward more sustainable transport solutions.
As part of ongoing improvements, Kigali is expected to integrate additional buses into the public transport system to strengthen service delivery and meet growing commuter demand.
Transport authorities say the expansion of the bus fleet, combined with the introduction of priority lanes, is expected to significantly improve travel times and reduce pressure on existing road infrastructure.
Officials maintain that encouraging greater use of buses is not only a response to fuel price fluctuations but also a long-term strategy to modernize urban transport and improve quality of life in the capital.
