IZI, the innovative Africa-focused e-mobility provider, is advancing its mission to electrify Rwanda’s public transport sector. In just four months of operation, IZI has demonstrated significant success with its initial fleet of five electric buses. These buses have traveled over 74,000 electric kilometres, carried more than 250,000 passengers, saved operators 38% in running costs (equating to $34,000 in diesel savings alone), and mitigated over 60 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
This impressive impact data is continuously tracked via IZI’s proprietary IZI Connect platform, which provides real-time transparency to both fleet operators and investors. “These results validate our E-Mobility-as-a-Service model,” said Alex Wilson, CEO of IZI. “We’re not just reducing emissions; we’re proving that sustainable public transport is economically viable in Africa.”
IZI’s progress has now been boosted by a RWF 300 million grant (US$221,000) from the Rwanda Green Fund. This funding will facilitate the deployment of five additional electric buses in Kigali, each of which will feature cutting-edge technology. These new buses will include independent intelligent driver’s cabins, air suspension-balanced driver seats, full LCD dashboards, one-step entry, and a flat-floor design for enhanced passenger comfort. This marks a significant step forward in public transport innovation in Rwanda.
IZI’s success has also sparked growing demand from local transport operators. The company has signed contracts with four of Rwanda’s leading public bus operators for the deployment of over 100 electric buses, marking a large-scale expansion of its operations. One of the key partners, Volcano Express, is eager to integrate electric buses into its fleet. “IZI’s electric buses offer us a path to significantly reduce operational costs while contributing to a cleaner environment,” said Andrew Mugisha, Deputy CEO of Volcano Express. “We’re excited to deploy these buses on our routes.”
As part of its future growth plans, IZI is also investing in infrastructure development. The company is establishing a state-of-the-art battery maintenance and repair facility in Kigali, which will support the entire EV ecosystem in Rwanda. This facility aims to position Rwanda as a leader in electric vehicle technology and maintenance across Africa.
Beyond physical infrastructure, IZI is addressing a crucial skills gap in Rwanda’s emerging electric vehicle sector. The company plans to launch comprehensive training programs focused on electric vehicle technology, battery diagnostics, and repair. These initiatives aim to create a skilled workforce capable of maintaining the growing fleet of electric vehicles in the country.
“As we introduce more EVs to Rwanda’s roads, it’s vital that we simultaneously develop the skills needed to maintain and repair this new technology,” explained Wilson. “There’s currently a shortage of technicians with specialized EV knowledge, which could slow down the growth of the industry if not addressed.”
IZI’s comprehensive approach to e-mobility, which combines vehicle deployment, infrastructure development, and capacity building, is set to have a transformative impact on Rwanda’s transport sector. It also aligns with the country’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, serving as a model for sustainable urban mobility across Africa.
