Rwanda and Germany Explore Stronger Cooperation in Transport Development and Electric Mobility

Kigali, Rwanda, 21 October 2026 – Rwanda and Germany are exploring opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation in transport development and infrastructure, with particular emphasis on electric mobility, sustainable transport solutions and emerging opportunities linked to Rwanda’s strategic infrastructure projects.

This follows a meeting held this Wednesday between Rwanda’s Minister of State at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Hon. Col. Claudien Bizimungu, and Hon. Serap Güler, Minister of State at the German Federal Foreign Office.

Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation across areas of mutual interest, particularly transport development and infrastructure, while highlighting opportunities for collaboration in electric vehicles, public transport and future mobility services.

Partnerships to Advance Sustainable Mobility

During the meeting, Hon. Col. Claudien Bizimungu encouraged Volkswagen and MAN Bus & Truck to remain proactive and competitive in emerging opportunities, particularly electric buses (e-buses), charging services and future mobility needs associated with the development of the new Kigali International Airport and other strategic infrastructure projects.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining the product quality and standards expected of Volkswagen’s local investment, underscoring the need for reliable products and services that respond to Rwanda’s evolving transport needs.

The Minister of State highlighted the importance of partnerships in strengthening bilateral cooperation and translating shared priorities into practical initiatives that support sustainable transport development.

“Partnerships are key to strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and Germany and advancing innovative solutions to our evolving transport needs. We encourage our partners to remain forward-looking, competitive and responsive to emerging opportunities, particularly in electric mobility, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability. These efforts can contribute to more efficient, sustainable and accessible transport services for our people,” he said.

Electric mobility presents opportunities to modernise public transport, reduce emissions and support the development of charging infrastructure and related services. 

As Rwanda continues to invest in strategic transport infrastructure, collaboration with international partners and private-sector companies can help mobilise technical expertise, investment and innovative technologies.

The development of the new Kigali International Airport and other major infrastructure projects is also expected to create evolving mobility requirements, reinforcing the importance of forward-looking transport solutions that connect people, businesses and key economic centres.

German companies have contributed to Rwanda’s mobility sector through investments and initiatives aimed at introducing new transport solutions and strengthening local capacity.

A notable example is Volkswagen’s engagement in Rwanda. In 2018, Volkswagen established Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda, an initiative designed to introduce integrated mobility services, including vehicle assembly, ride-hailing and corporate car-sharing.

In 2019, Volkswagen, in collaboration with Siemens, launched an electric mobility pilot project in Rwanda involving the e-Golf electric vehicle. The initiative formed part of broader efforts to explore the potential of electric mobility and innovative transport services in the country.

Volkswagen’s presence has contributed to discussions on vehicle assembly, mobility services and the opportunities associated with the transition towards cleaner transport technologies. MAN Bus & Truck also represents a relevant partner in exploring solutions for Rwanda’s public and commercial transport needs, particularly as the country considers opportunities in modern bus fleets and electric public transport.

Building on these experiences, continued engagement with German companies could support the development of electric buses, charging services, vehicle maintenance expertise and other solutions required for a more sustainable transport system.

The discussions reaffirm the importance of strengthening Rwanda–Germany relations through partnerships that encourage investment, innovation and quality service delivery. By aligning private-sector capabilities with Rwanda’s development priorities, both countries can explore new opportunities to advance efficient, reliable and sustainable mobility.