Rwanda’s Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA) is spearheading an ambitious initiative to ensure electric vehicles (EVs) can travel no more than 50 kilometers without access to charging facilities. The government is developing a comprehensive master plan aimed at establishing a robust charging network across the country.
The master plan will provide a blueprint for investors to strategically develop EV infrastructure, avoiding underutilized or obsolete stations, according to a report by The New Times. The framework focuses on areas with high population density and traffic, leveraging existing petrol stations and commercial properties. A recent geospatial analysis identified over 226 potential sites for charging infrastructure, positioning the country to meet its EV adoption goals.
The initiative aligns with Rwanda’s growing transition to electric mobility. Data from the Rwanda Revenue Authority indicates that the number of electric vehicles has surged from just 19 in 2020 to 512 in 2024, while hybrid vehicle registrations have climbed from 28 in 2021 to 6,660 this year. Currently, Rwanda hosts 24 public charging stations, alongside four direct motorcycle chargers and 49 facilities offering a combination of charging and battery-swapping options.
Electric mobility is delivering tangible benefits to Rwandan citizens, particularly in reducing transportation costs. In Nyamagabe District, local farmers report significant savings in transporting animal feed, which has contributed to making feed prices more affordable.
While the timeline for rolling out the charging network is yet to be confirmed, the master plan marks a significant step toward establishing Rwanda as a leader in sustainable transportation in Africa.
