The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (Rura) on Wednesday awarded best performing public transport companies.

In Kigali, City Centre Transport Co-operative (CCTC) topped with about 84.3 per cent, followed by Remera Transport co-operative with 81.3 per cent.

In upcountry routes, Omega Car company emerged the best with 79 per cent, followed by Volcano Express with 78.7 per cent.

Emmanuel Katabarwa Asaba, the in charge of transport at Rura, said safety,  comfort, mechanical condition of  vehicles and  adherence to existing rules and regulations  were some of the aspects  considered during the assessment of service delivery.

Dr Alexis Nzahabwanimana, the State Minister in charge of Transport, said awarding top performers had ignited competition in the transport sector 

He added that delays had reduced significantly following the introduction of a new transport system in Kigali last September.

"We are optimistic the problem will reduce further, when new 35-seat capacity buses get on the road before the end of next month.”

He congratulated the winners, but challenged them to maintain the standards.

The Minister for Infrastructure, Prof. Silas Lwakabamba, expressed optimism that the 80km ring road around Kigali that is in the offing would help eliminate traffic jam.

 He pledged continued government support to the public transport sector.

Thacien Hakizimana, the operations manager of Omega Car company, commended the awards.

"Respecting public transport rules and regulations has always been our priority, so rewarding us makes us glad,” he said.