Rwanda Launches Helmet Testing Laboratory as Part of the ‘Tuwurinde’ Project

Rwanda has officially inaugurated a Helmet Testing Laboratory under the ‘Tuwurinde’ Project, a collaborative initiative involving the Government of Rwanda, the FIA Foundation, Healthy People Rwanda, and the UN Road Safety Fund (UNRSF). The launch was also supported by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).

This new laboratory, located at the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), aims to ensure that helmets used by motorbike and moped riders comply with national safety standards. It will conduct conformity assessments based on the RS 576: 2024 Protective helmets for motorcycle and moped users – Specification, reinforcing Rwanda’s commitment to enhancing road safety.

The launch event drew over 200 participants and was officiated by Dr. Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Infrastructure; Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President; and David Richards, Chairman of the FIA Foundation. The event included a guided tour of RSB’s testing laboratory, live demonstrations on proper helmet usage, and insightful discussions regarding the vital role of safety standards in the transportation sector.

In his remarks, Dr. Jimmy Gasore emphasized the significance of the new facility: “This laboratory strengthens our commitment to road safety by ensuring helmets meet quality standards. It’s a critical step in protecting lives and reducing road accidents. By collaborating with the FIA and the FIA Foundation, we are not only enhancing safety measures but also reinforcing Rwanda’s position as a leader in promoting sustainable and responsible mobility.”

David Richards, Chairman of the FIA Foundation, hailed the launch as a significant milestone: “The launch of Africa’s first-ever helmet testing facility marks a significant milestone in the continent’s efforts to combat the rising number of motorcycle crash deaths and injuries. The FIA Foundation is proud to have supported the Tuwurinde Project in collaboration with local NGOs, government partners, and international development agencies. Rwanda has worked hard to introduce helmet standards and now to assess the quality of new helmets and demonstrates a commitment to adopting best practices in the region. This initiative is an important blueprint for other countries across the region, and the world, who are looking for ways to adapt and manage their rising motorcycle fleet.”

As part of the activities surrounding the 2024 FIA Annual General Assemblies taking place in Kigali, the FIA announced plans to donate 5,000 certified helmets across Rwanda, along with an education program for over 10,000 riders focused on helmet safety. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem remarked: “Safety is at the heart of everything the FIA stands for and I am proud to make this donation. As a Federation, we are at the forefront of safety innovation and it is important that we continue working closely with our global communities to improve road safety outcomes.”

Supporting the initiative, Rwanda National Police Spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga stated: “Road safety remains a priority, and initiatives like ‘Safe Helmet’ play a vital role in protecting lives. We are committed to working alongside RSB and FIA Foundation to ensure all taxi-moto riders in Rwanda have access to certified helmets, contributing to safer roads for everyone.”

Emmanuel Munyurangabo, representing the Association of Taxi-Motos, added: “Our members are on the front lines of road transport. Access to quality helmets not only ensures their safety but also enhances public confidence in using moto-taxis. We fully endorse this initiative and will advocate for its widespread adoption.”

The establishment of the helmet testing facility and the FIA’s donation follows the introduction of Rwanda’s first motorcycle helmet standard, published in 2024. Notably, head trauma is the leading cause of death for motorcycle riders, who account for a third of Rwanda’s road fatalities. According to the World Health Organization, safe, quality helmets can reduce the risk of death by over six times and brain injury by up to 74%.

Other partners in the Tuwurinde project include UNRSF, UNECA, and UNECE.

About the FIA Foundation

The FIA Foundation is an international charity that collaborates with grant partners to shape projects and advocate for changes in policy and practice, aiming for safe and healthy journeys for all.

About the Rwanda Standards Board

The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), established in 2002, provides standards-based solutions that promote trade, protect consumers, and support the country’s strategic development goals. With over 4,130 developed standards across various sectors, RSB plays a crucial role in advancing Rwanda’s technological progress, health and safety, environmental protection, and economic growth through quality infrastructure.