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Traffic emissions, household cooking using wood and charcoal, waste burning, and small-scale industries contribute to almost three-quarters of the fine particles polluting Kigali’s air, according to a new scientific study that provides the most comprehensive view yet of what residents are breathing in this rapidly expanding city. These fine particles are small enough to be inhaled deep into the lungs, presenting significant health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with heart or lung conditions. ALSO READ: Air pollution levels in Kigali decreased by 45% during UCI week – REMA The year-long study, led by Rwandan scientist Theobard Habineza from Carnegie Mellon University, offers the first detailed, continuous measurements of air pollution in Kigali. It was conducted in collaboration with scientists Allen Robinson, Langley DeWitt, Jimmy Gasore, Philip Croteau, and Albert Presto. Using advanced instruments to measure fine particles and black carbon, the research provides new insights into the sources driving air pollution in one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities. Researchers used an Aerosol Chemical Speciation Monitor (ACSM) and black carbon measurements to determine the composition of airborne particles and their origins—whether from traffic emissions, fuel combustion, dust, or other sources. ALSO READ: 80 percent of vehicles emit greenhouse gas “We used the latest technology to assess the air we breathe and how it affects us,” Habineza said. “Air quality is poor in some parts of Kigali when compared to World Health Organisation standards.” Cooking fuels and traffic are the main contributors to emissions Cooking with wood and charcoal remains a major source of air pollution. “Our findings show that cooking with wood and charcoal accounts for about 23 per cent of fine particulate matter,” Habineza said. Black carbon, a highly harmful pollutant, mainly comes from traffic and cooking. It harms the lungs and heart and also contributes to climate change by absorbing heat in the atmosphere. The study found that vehicles account for approximately 60 per cent of black carbon emissions through fossil fuel combustion, while cooking contributes 40 per cent through biomass burning. ALSO READ: Air quality: Govt introduces changes in vehicle emissions testing Pollution levels peak during morning and evening traffic hours, meal times, and the dry season. Nearly half (45 per cent) of particulate matter forms in the air itself, as gases from vehicles and burning activities react in sunlight to create new particles. “Cleaner cooking fuels are essential for improving health,” Habineza said. Car-Free Sundays lead to immediate improvements The study also found that air pollution decreases by 17 per cent during Car-Free Sundays, highlighting the immediate benefits of reduced traffic. However, Habineza warned that traffic congestion after enforcement periods can worsen pollution levels. Poor air quality increases the risk of asthma, heart disease, pregnancy complications, and premature death. “Air pollution is not only a health issue—it also hinders economic growth,” he said. “Reducing traffic pollution and improving cooking energy sources would lower healthcare costs, boost productivity, and support a healthier urban economy.” Vehicle emission controls Pierre-Célestin Hakizimana, an air quality inspection officer at the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), stated that vehicle age, type, and maintenance play a crucial role in controlling emissions. “Vehicles under 10 years old generally meet emission standards better than older models,” he said, adding that maintenance is equally important. “A well-maintained vehicle from the 1990s can pollute less than a poorly maintained 2020 model.” The Rwanda National Police (RNP), working with other institutions, has launched a nationwide vehicle emission testing campaign. There are four inspection centers—Huye (south and west), Kigali (city and suburbs), Rwamagana (east), and Musanze (north). RNP spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga said the Ndera Automobile Inspection Centre can inspect up to 650 vehicles daily, including cars, heavy machinery, and motorcycles. Push for cleaner cooking Efforts to promote cleaner cooking are gaining momentum. The use of electric, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and ethanol stoves is expected to increase from 3 per cent in 2024 to 27 per cent by 2029, according to a new five-year plan by the Ministry of Infrastructure. A new energy policy released on February 17, 2025, supports this shift by improving the availability and affordability of clean cooking solutions. The long-term goal is to replace wood and charcoal with clean and efficient fuels by 2035. Improved cookstoves, which use less biomass fuel, are expected to increase from 9 per cent to 22 per cent by 2029. Rwanda aims to achieve universal access to clean cooking by 2030, a move anticipated to reduce indoor air pollution, prevent deforestation, and lower health risks associated with charcoal and firewood use.

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