An analysis by Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) has shown that the temporary closure of major roads during the UCI World Cycling Championships significantly improved air quality in Kigali. The UCI World Championships brought together almost 1,000 cyclists from across the globe, who competed in the City of Kigali from September 21 to 28. ALSO READ: 80 percent of vehicles emit greenhouse gas To facilitate the races, some of the city’s major roads were closed, while alternative routes were designated for passenger vehicles and trucks were re-routed. The shift in traffic patterns provided a unique opportunity for the experts to study the direct impact of reduced vehicular emissions on Kigali’s air quality. During the UCI Championships week, 10 air quality monitoring stations were installed in different areas of Kigali to track pollution levels on both closed and non-closed routes. ALSO READ: Air quality: Govt introduces changes in vehicle emissions testing The stations were located in areas including Gacuriro, Rusororo, Mont Kigali, Gikondo, Nyarutarama, Kibagabaga, Kimironko, Nyabugogo, and RDB/Kimihurura. Based on air quality monitoring before and during the week-long event, the report shows that PM2.5 levels—harmful fine particles in the air—dropped by up to 45% on closed routes. On alternative routes, air pollution levels fell by 30–35%, while non-route areas recorded little change, the report says. This highlighted the direct impact of reduced traffic during the race week, as air quality monitoring stations recorded consistently cleaner air, with far fewer extreme pollution events compared to baseline data. On fully closed roads, midday pollution levels remained below 30 micrograms of pollutants per cubic metre of air, a remarkable improvement from typical averages of 47–50 micrograms per cubic metre. The findings confirm that traffic restrictions not only improved air quality during closure hours but also created residual benefits into the evening. “These findings are a clear demonstration of how reduced traffic emissions directly improve the air we breathe,” said Juliet Kabera, Director General of REMA. “During the UCI Championships, the air quality in Kigali was moderate, which is acceptable for the general public according to WHO air quality guidelines. This should inspire all of us to properly maintain our vehicles and embrace more sustainable transport choices, such as using public transport, cycling, walking, and avoiding unnecessary car trips whenever possible. Cleaner air is within our reach if we make conscious decisions in our daily lives,” she added. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Environment, through REMA, introduced enhanced vehicle emissions testing, underscoring Rwanda’s commitment to cleaner air, improved public health, and sustainable development. REMA noted that the positive results during the championships emphasise the importance of sustainable urban mobility. In addition to the air quality monitoring stations located in Kigali, REMA operates stations across Rwanda, and citizens are encouraged to follow real-time updates on aq.rema.gov.rw to stay informed about the air they breathe and make healthier choices.
