Environmental and Socio-Economic Impacts of Shared Mobility Services in the City of Kigali, Rwanda

Abstract

Aims: This study assessed the environmental and socio-economic impacts of shared mobility services in the City of Kigali, Rwanda, with particular emphasis on their contribution to sustainable urban transport, environmental improvement, and livelihood enhancement. Study Design: A convergent parallel mixed-methods research design was employed. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the City of Kigali, Rwanda, among users of various shared mobility services, including bus commuters, motorbike-taxi users, ride-hailing users, and private car owners. Data collection was carried out in 2026. Methodology: Quantitative data were collected from 400 respondents using structured questionnaires, while qualitative information was obtained through semi-structured interviews with nine key informants representing urban planning institutions, transport regulatory agencies, and mobility service providers. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis, whereas qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results: The findings revealed that all shared mobility components examined, namely car and bus sharing, motorbike-taxi sharing, digital mobility platforms, and ride-hailing services, were positively and significantly associated with respondents' perceived socio-economic and environmental outcomes (p < 0.05); because both predictor and outcome measures were self-reported, these results reflect perceived rather than independently verified impacts. Car and bus sharing exhibited the strongest association (r = 0.832, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis indicated that the four predictors jointly explained 75.6% of the variation in socio-economic and environmental impacts (Adjusted R² = 0.709; R = 0.862; p < 0.05). Respondents reported that shared mobility services contribute to reduced traffic congestion, lower urban emissions, improved accessibility, and the creation of employment opportunities. However, disparities in access were observed among low-income populations and residents of peripheral areas. Conclusion: Shared mobility services constitute an important pathway towards sustainable urban development in Kigali by generating environmental and socio-economic benefits. The study recommends the development of integrated digital mobility systems, accelerated electrification of shared transport modes, and targeted infrastructure investments to improve accessibility and inclusiveness across all communities.