Motorcycle taxi riders in Kigali have increased transport fares in response to the recent rise in fuel prices announced by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).
On July 1st, RURA introduced new fuel prices, with an increase of 200 Rwandan Francs (RWF) per liter. The adjusted prices, which include Value Added Tax (VAT), took effect immediately following the announcement made by Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Infrastructure.
In the wake of the fuel hike, motorcyclists working in the capital city have had to adjust their prices in order to cope with the additional cost of operations.
Mbonimpa Jean Claude, a motorcyclist with over ten years of experience, shared his perspective: “Yes, the price increased, and we accepted it because we can’t stop working due to rising fuel costs. What we have done instead is raise the price for our clients as well.” He explained that a route that previously cost 1,000 RWF now costs 1,200 RWF, a necessary adjustment to cover fuel expenses.
This price increase is affecting regular passengers too. Divine Akarabo, a daily motorcycle user, expressed her concern: “Things have changed. I had to adjust my routine because the price has gone up. I was shocked when the rider charged me more than usual. When I asked why, he told me fuel prices had increased.”
The impact of the fuel hike is not limited to motorcyclists. Car owners, including students at Mount Kigali University, are also feeling the burden. Many say the increase is putting a strain on their daily transport budgets.
Despite the rising costs, the government has reassured the public that it will closely monitor the fuel price trends and take appropriate action to prevent the increase from negatively affecting trade and transport.
“We are watching the situation carefully,” said a government spokesperson. “We aim to ensure that any price changes do not disrupt economic activities, especially those reliant on petroleum products.”
