The Rwanda Revenue Authority has revealed that at least 16,000 people have applied to transfer ownership of vehicles they purchased but which were never registered in their names, highlighting persistent challenges in vehicle registration compliance.
According to the tax authority, about 10,000 of these applicants are encountering serious difficulties in completing the process, largely because the original owners from whom the vehicles were bought can no longer be traced.
Some of the former owners have since died, while others are believed to be living abroad.
The issue was discussed during a joint press briefing held by the Rwanda Revenue Authority and the Rwanda National Police, focusing on the growing number of problematic vehicle ownership cases.
Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayers and Communication at RRA, Uwitonze Jean Paulin, said the situation exposes gaps in compliance at the point of vehicle transactions.
“A significant number of buyers failed to complete ownership transfer at the time of purchase, which is now creating legal and administrative complications,” Uwitonze said.
In response, the Rwanda National Police announced stricter enforcement measures, warning that vehicles without complete and valid registration documents will no longer be allowed to circulate freely.
Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said any vehicle found without proper registration documentation will be impounded until all outstanding issues are resolved.
Authorities have urged vehicle buyers to ensure ownership transfers are completed promptly and in accordance with the law to avoid penalties and the possible seizure of their vehicles.
