Rwanda recorded 10,320 road traffic crashes in 2025, claiming 719 lives, as the Rwanda National Police renewed calls for motorists to comply with traffic regulations and drive responsibly.
Speaking on road safety, Traffic and Road Safety spokesperson SSP Emmanuel Kayigi said reckless driving and failure to observe traffic laws remain the primary causes of accidents across the country.
He warned that some road users continue to undermine safety efforts by deliberately damaging speed-control devices or ignoring speed limits, particularly motorcyclists.
“Some people remove or destroy speed-control devices, while others, especially motorcyclists, drive above the prescribed speed limits. Speeding remains one of the leading causes of road crashes,” Kayigi said.
He urged motorists to think about the consequences of traffic violations before committing them, emphasizing that every driver has a responsibility to protect lives on the road.
While acknowledging that human error is a major factor, some drivers said growing traffic congestion and the design of certain roads also contribute to accidents. They called for the expansion and improvement of road infrastructure in high-traffic areas.
Police data shows that the 10,320 crashes recorded in 2025 resulted in 719 deaths. Authorities also said motorcycles were involved in 98 percent of all road traffic accidents reported during the year.
The impact of road crashes is also reflected in emergency medical services. According to police, about 40 of the 50 people transported by ambulance each day are victims of road traffic accidents.
Police identified speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, distracted driving and failure to obey traffic laws as the leading causes of crashes.
The force has urged all road users to support the Gerayo Amahoro road safety campaign by respecting traffic rules, observing speed limits and avoiding driving while intoxicated or fatigued.
