Rwanda Backs Electric Motorcycles with Rwf4.5 Billion Financing Deal

Kigali, 14 August 2026 - The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) and Jali Finance Ltd have signed a partnership worth more than Rwf4.5 billion to expand access to electric motorcycles and accelerate the country’s transition toward cleaner urban transport.

The financing will enable Jali Finance to expand support for motorcycle riders, making electric motorcycles more affordable while helping reduce fuel and maintenance expenses. Motorcycles are a major source of transport and income in Kigali and across Rwanda, but most currently rely on petrol, contributing to emissions and higher operating costs.

The initiative is expected to help reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, lower operating costs for riders and expand access to affordable financing for income-generating activities. The growing shift toward electric motorcycles is also expected to create employment and support Rwanda’s wider green-economy and urban mobility ambitions.

BRD CEO Stella Rusine Nteziryayo said the partnership reflects the bank’s commitment to financing low-carbon projects that can improve livelihoods and support Rwanda’s transition to a sustainable economy. Jali Group and Jali Finance CEO Jean Felix Nkundimana said the partnership would encourage the company to strengthen governance, financial management, innovation and customer service while expanding support for Rwandans.

Established in 1967, BRD is Rwanda’s development bank, providing long-term financing for sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, housing, education, environmental protection, exports and industry.