English
Kinyarwanda
The Rwanda National Police (RNP) on Saturday, July 11, hosted a delegation of 15 public transport experts from the Tanzania Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) at the General Headquarters in Kacyiru for a two-day study visit to learn about Rwanda’s motorcycle public transport management.
The visit aims to provide the Tanzanian delegation with insights into Rwanda's regulatory framework and collaborative approach to ensure safe and efficient motorcycle public transport, supporting similar efforts in Tanzania.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Gerard Mpayimana, the Commissioner for Traffic and Road Safety, received the delegation and highlighted the vital role of motorcycle taxis in Rwanda's public transport.
"Motorcycles are among the fastest and most accessible means of public transport in Rwanda, especially in urban areas, where they provide a convenient mobility option for thousands of commuters every day," ACP Mpayimana said.
He observed, however, that the growth of motorcycle transport also presents road safety and security challenges that require effective regulation and enforcement.
"Motorcycle transport can be associated with traffic violations, road crashes, criminal activities, and other public safety risks. This requires a robust regulatory framework and effective enforcement to ensure compliance with traffic laws, prevent crashes, and safeguard road users," he said.
ACP Mpayimana noted that Rwanda's achievements in motorcycle public transport management are the result of coordinated efforts by various stakeholders.
"This progress has been driven by strong collaboration among key institutions, including the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), the Ministry of Infrastructure, local government authorities, motorcycle cooperatives and Youth Volunteers in Community Policing, complemented by the integration of technology in traffic management," he emphasized.
The Head of Delegation, Assistant Director of the Road Transport Department from the Ministry of Transport in Tanzania, Mr. Andrew Magombana, commended Rwanda's commitment to road safety and the coordinated approach adopted in regulating motorcycle public transport.
"We have been impressed by Rwanda's comprehensive approach to motorcycle public transport management. The regulatory framework, institutional coordination, and use of technology offer valuable lessons that will support our efforts to improve motorcycle transport services back home," he said.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the two sides to exchange experiences and best practices on motorcycle public transport management, with discussions focusing on regulation, enforcement, road safety, technology and stakeholder coordination.
