Rwanda is rolling out its green transition with a fresh twist—electric motorbikes and buses are taking over the streets, thanks to a powerhouse partnership with Chinese technology and infrastructure. 🌿🔌 As we gear up for the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, the bond between China and Rwanda is getting stronger, showing how African visions are steering the ship towards green development.
⚡ Electric motorbikes: Rwanda's clean mobility drive
Known as the 'land of a thousand hills,' Kigali's hilly landscape and growing urban vibes have made e-motos (electric motorbikes) the go-to choice for moto-taxi drivers. These eco-friendly rides slash carbon emissions by a whopping 83% compared to their petrol-powered counterparts, putting Rwanda on track for a sustainable transport future. 🌍🚲
China's role in this transformation is nothing short of pivotal. Over 70% of Rwanda's national highways were built by Chinese firms like the China Road and Bridge Corporation, while the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation has streamlined operations for the country's 26,000+ registered moto-taxis. 🚧🇨🇳 Rwanda's electric motorbike startup, Ampersand, has zoomed ahead with over 500 e-motos deployed, all powered by battery swap stations connected to Rwanda’s hydropower grid—much of which leverages Chinese tech. \"Rwanda is our home and the perfect launchpad for East Africa's electric mobility,\" said Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand.
