The Chamber of Deputies has adopted a draft law governing road traffic that introduces sweeping reforms aimed at improving safety, modernizing enforcement, and aligning transport policy with the country’s growing infrastructure network.
The new law affects almost every category of road user, from car drivers and moto-taxi operators to cyclists and pedestrians.
It introduces stricter regulations, updated penalties and new protections.
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a merit and demerit point system for drivers.
Good driving will be rewarded, while repeated violations may lead to license suspension or even revocation. Driving schools must now be accredited and all drivers will undergo periodic medical fitness checks to ensure they are healthy and fit to drive.
Vehicles will be subject to tighter oversight, including mandatory technical inspections and clearer rules on registration, de-registration and transfers.
For the first time, the law gives specific attention to the rights of non-motorized road users.
It requires sidewalks, bicycle lanes and pedestrian crossings to be prioritized in road planning.
Special emphasis is placed on protecting children, persons with disabilities and cyclists, who are considered among the most vulnerable.
Commercial motorbike operators, who play a central role in Rwanda’s transport system, will face tighter regulation.
Riders must comply with professional standards and passengers are obliged to wear helmets and follow safety rules.
The penalties system has been comprehensively restructured. While minor infractions such as illegal parking may see fines reduced — in some cases from Rwf 25,000 to Rwf 10,000 — the law prescribes heavier punishments for serious offenses.
Driving under the influence will attract fines ranging from Rwf 100,000 to Rwf 500,000, with the possibility of up to 15 days in jail for serious cases or repeat offenders.
A Ministerial Order will spell out the full list of offences, corresponding administrative fines, and the number of demerit points attached to each.
Drivers must pay fines within 30 days. Failure to do so leads to a 30 percent surcharge, and after another 30 days the vehicle involved may be impounded.
Repeat offenders risk license suspension or permanent revocation, and anyone caught driving with a suspended or revoked license will face further sanctions.
Technology will play a central role in enforcement. Speed cameras, digital driver records and online fine payment systems will become standard.
The law also promotes the use of smart traffic lights and integrated transport management systems to reduce congestion and improve compliance.
The law strengthens coordination between the police, local authorities and transport ministries, while also encouraging the private sector to play a role in road safety campaigns.
Rwanda records thousands of road accidents every year, many involving motorcycles and pedestrians.
Lawmakers argue that the new reforms are designed to reduce accidents and make roads safer for the country’s growing population.
By combining education, enforcement and technology, the government hopes the new law will change road culture and ensure that safety remains central as Rwanda’s infrastructure network expands.
