Rwanda continues to lead the way in Africa’s transition to electric mobility with the launch of its first ultrafast charging hub by Kabisa, one of East Africa’s top electric vehicle (EV) service providers. This groundbreaking initiative marks a major milestone in accelerating the adoption of EVs for commercial use in the region, offering a viable, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel transport.
The new ultrafast charging facility, located at SP’s Kanombe station in Kigali, boasts an impressive power capacity of up to 240 kW—far exceeding the current 7.43 kW to 22 kW range found in most charging stations across the city. With six charging bays available, the hub can accommodate both private EVs and commercial fleets, including electric trucks, vans, and buses, ensuring that vehicles can recharge up to ten times faster than conventional AC or DC chargers. Most EVs will now be able to charge in just 15–25 minutes, significantly reducing downtime for commercial operators who rely on efficiency to keep their fleets on the road.
This development is a critical step in transforming regional logistics, enabling electric commercial vehicles to efficiently transport goods across East Africa, from Rwanda to key port cities such as Mombasa and Dar es Salaam. The anticipated 80% cost savings on fuel and maintenance compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles further solidify the financial viability of this transition.
Rwanda has been at the forefront of Africa’s EV revolution, implementing progressive policies and incentives that encourage investment in sustainable transportation. These include:
Fiscal incentives: EVs, batteries, spare parts, and charging equipment are exempt from import and excise duties, VAT, and withholding tax. Charging stations also benefit from electricity tariffs capped at industrial rates, with further reductions during off-peak hours.
Non-fiscal incentives: Government-provided rent-free land for charging stations, green license plates for preferential parking and congestion-free entry, and integration of charging provisions in building codes. EVs are also prioritized for government fleet procurement.
Environmental regulations: Age limits on imported used vehicles, restricted zones for non-green vehicles, and strict emission enforcement to discourage polluting cars.
These policies have created an attractive business environment, spurring investments such as Kabisa’s new hub, which was developed in partnership with SP Rwanda and backed by Ireme Invest, a green investment initiative supported by the Rwanda Green Fund and the Development Bank of Rwanda.
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Kabisa has already established Rwanda’s largest public EV charging network, comprising 26 charging points, seven of which are located at SP stations. The new ultrafast charging hub at Kanombe enhances this network, strategically positioned near Kigali International Airport and the Free Trade Zone, a high-traffic corridor for commercial transport.
At the launch event, Kabisa’s Managing Director, Pophia Muhoza, emphasized the company’s vision for the future:
“We’re proud to welcome all EVs to the first Kabisa Supercharger. This marks just the beginning of our mission to establish a convenient, ultrafast EV charging network across East Africa. We are committed to enabling businesses and individuals to realize the full benefits of electric mobility—cost savings, cleaner air, and lower emissions.”
SP Rwanda CEO Yves Legrux echoed this sentiment, highlighting the company’s dedication to sustainable mobility:
“SP Kanombe has long been a central hub for trade routes between Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Hosting this ultrafast charger aligns with our commitment to providing outstanding service to road users and supporting Rwanda’s shift toward green transportation.”
Rwanda’s thriving business ecosystem is already benefiting from the EV transition. Solid’Africa, an NGO focused on addressing nutrition insecurity, has leveraged EV adoption to optimize costs and sustainability. CEO Nassir Katuramu shared how switching to electric vehicles has transformed operations:
“Sustainability is core to our mission. By transitioning to EVs with Kabisa, we have cut costs on fuel and rentals, redirecting these savings to feed and support more people. Thanks to Rwanda’s tax incentives, we were able to purchase nine electric cars—something that would have been unattainable with fuel-powered alternatives.”
Kabisa’s new ultrafast charging hub is a bold step toward an electrified future for East Africa. As businesses increasingly recognize the economic and environmental benefits of EV adoption, investments in sustainable mobility infrastructure will continue to shape the region’s transport landscape.
With continued government support, private sector collaboration, and strategic infrastructure expansion, Rwanda is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s clean energy transition—one charge at a time.
