Rwanda : first motorcycle helmet quality testing laboratory opens in Africa

By Emmanuel Kanamara, Kigali

The event took place at the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), where the laboratory was established. In addition to the distribution of helmets meeting quality standards, 1,000 helmets were given to motorcyclists in May 2024 following the introduction of new helmet regulations.

The need for such a laboratory arose from concerns about the effectiveness of helmets previously in use. Although nearly 100% of motorcyclists wear helmets, many riders continued to suffer head injuries or fatalities in accidents. Tests conducted on helmets currently in use revealed that the majority did not meet the required quality standards.

The laboratory, which can test 30 to 40 helmets daily, is the first of its kind in Africa

Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Gasore Jimmy, highlighted the importance of this initiative for road safety in Africa: “It will help in our efforts to improve motorcycle safety so that in the event of accidents, people will not suffer severe head injuries. The helmet regulations came into effect in May of this year, and we hope that, in the future, all helmets entering the country will meet the required quality standards.”

RSB Director-General, Murenzi Raymond, emphasized the crucial need for this laboratory: “This laboratory allows us to assess the quality of motorcycle helmets, a test that was not possible before due to the lack of a specialized facility.”

This laboratory allows us to assess the quality of motorcycle helmets, a test that was not possible before due to the lack of a specialized facility

FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem expressed his satisfaction: “Safety is at the heart of everything the FIA stands for, and I’m delighted to witness the work taking place here in Rwanda. 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.”

FIA Foundation Chairman David Richards also praised the opening of this laboratory: “The launch of Africa’s first helmet testing facility marks a significant milestone in the continent’s efforts to combat the rising number of motorcycle crash deaths and injuries. This initiative is an important blueprint for other countries across the region and the world looking for ways to manage their growing motorcycle fleet.”

Motorcyclists and cyclists represent a large majority of road users involved in accidents. According to a report by the Rwanda National Police, about 53% of road accidents in 2023 involved motorcycles and cyclists, resulting in 98 fatalities and 46 serious injuries for motorcycles alone.

According to data from the World Health Organization (2018), motorcycle safety remains a major issue in Africa, as motorcycles expose riders and passengers to a high risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash.