Rwanda has taken a significant step to reduce motorcycle deaths and head injuries with the introduction of the first African helmet testing facility, supported by the FIA Foundation. The Tuwurinde Project has worked with the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), Healthy People Rwanda, MINERFRA, supported by the UN Road Safety Fund and FIA Foundation, alongside UN ECA and UNECE to address motorcycle crash head injury.

The helmet testing facility launch and donation from the FIA follows the introduction of Rwanda's first motorcycle helmet standard, published earlier in 2024. Head trauma is the leading cause of death for motorcycle riders, who make up a third of Rwanda's road deaths. Safe, quality helmets reduce the risk of death by over six times and brain injury by up to 74%, according to the World Health Organization.

The launch was officiated by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr Jimmy Gasore, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and FIA Foundation Chairman David Richards. It featured a guided tour of RSB's testing laboratory, live demonstrations on proper helmet usage, and insightful discussions on the critical role of safety standards in the transport sector.

Officiating the event, Dr Jimmy Gasore, Minister of Infrastructure, said: "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 enhancing safety measures and reinforcing Rwanda's position as a leader in promoting sustainable and responsible mobility."

FIA Foundation Chairman, David Richards CBE, added: "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 around the 2024 FIA Annual General Assemblies taking place in Kigali, the Rwanda Automobile Club announced plans for a donation of 5,000 certified helmets across Rwanda alongside an education programme for over 10,000 riders on helmet safety, with the support of the FIA Safe and Sustainable Mobility Grants Programme funded by the FIA Foundation.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem added: "Safety is at the heart of everything the FIA stands for, and I am 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."

Rwanda National Police Spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga, expressed support: "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."

Representing the Association of Taxi-Motos, Emmanuel Munyurangabo 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 Tuwurinde Project has worked with the Rwanda government, NGO Healthy People Rwanda, and UN agencies to address motorcycle crash head injury through helmet standards and testing.