Rwanda Cracks Down on Illegal Transport Fare Hikes

The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has warned public transport operators against незаконное fare increases, announcing penalties of up to Rwf200,000 for violators.

The regulator disclosed that about 100 operators have already been fined following inspections carried out after recent fuel price adjustments. The fines, ranging between Rwf100,000 and Rwf200,000, were imposed on operators who charged above approved rates or failed to issue tickets to passengers.

According to RURA, some transporters exploited the fuel price review to hike fares beyond official limits, with passengers reportedly paying as much as Rwf2,000 on routes where the approved fare is capped at Rwf1,400. Most of the infractions were linked to non-express, multi-stop operators popularly known as Twegerane.

The development follows recent increases in fuel prices announced by the authority on April 3, which pushed petrol to Rwf2,303 per litre and diesel to Rwf2,205.

A subsequent revision on April 16 raised petrol prices further to Rwf2,938 per litre, while diesel remained unchanged.

RURA noted that the adjustments were influenced by global market trends, alongside government measures to cushion the domestic economy from external shocks.

To address recurring fare inconsistencies, the authority is also considering the introduction of cashless payment systems, particularly to tackle issues related to lack of change.

Passengers have been urged to report any irregularities through the regulator’s toll-free line ( 2222) or official platforms, as enforcement efforts intensify.

The regulator reiterated that compliance with approved tariffs remains mandatory, warning that continued violations would attract stricter sanctions as part of efforts to maintain order and fairness in the transport sector.