BOOST and The Ride: training e-bike mechanics in Rwanda

With 20 trainees, the BOOST project has launched a new training program for bike mechanics and bike repair — thanks to a dynamic partnership with The Ride, an established company in Rwanda’s mobility sector. The Ride operates bike shops and workshops across the country, from Kigali to Bugesera District and Musanze. 

This six-month training aims to introduce and integrate electric bicycles—both two- and three-wheelers—for passenger and freight transport, while helping improve incomes and livelihoods. After completing the program, trainees from workshops in Kigali, Bugesera, and Musanze will be offered paid internships, with the possibility of permanent positions. 

BOOST RW trainees participating in e-bike mechanic training workshop in Rwanda

The role of partnerships in sustainable growth 

Partnerships play a crucial role in building new or improved business concepts that boost the local economy, create jobs, and foster sustainable development. “At first, I didn’t fully understand the impact of this program, but now I see it changing a lot. We’ve been reaching out to hosts, and they’re really appreciating the program. Many workshops are asking us to do the same,” says Hirwa Nicolas, CEO & MD of The Ride. “We’ve already started implementing similar programs with other shops as well.”  

For The Ride, this collaboration isn’t just about training—it’s about shaping Rwanda’s future in sustainable mobility. “Right now, electric motorcycles are becoming popular in Kigali, and everyone is talking about e-bikes. They’re much easier to adopt—no need for a driving license, plate, or parking fees, and they’re safer for deliveries. But the common problem was always: who can fix the e-bikes? With this program growing, that issue will be solved, and everyone will be able to buy and use e-bikes.” 

Developing local talent 

Professional training is at the heart of this initiative. “We work with many companies and have contracts with several different projects. Once we trained 20 mechanics, different shops and workshops started reaching out for more, because they trust our professional mechanic skills,” Nicolas explains. “As we keep training, we’ll eventually have professional mechanics everywhere—this will motivate more companies to adopt e-bikes for everyday tasks.” 

This effort is not only addressing a technical gap but also supporting local economic development. “If people know there are enough skilled mechanics, they’ll be less hesitant to invest in e-bikes. Right now, it’s expensive and difficult to find someone to fix them, but this program is already changing that,” Nicolas notes. 

The road ahead for e-mobility in Rwanda 

Looking forward, the BOOST project and its partners see Rwanda as a potential leader in e-mobility across Africa. “Rwanda can be one of the biggest consumers of e-bikes. The motivation here to move away from fuel-based vehicles is strong. If e-bikes are introduced properly, everyone would love to have one,” says Nicolas reflecting on the potential impact of the initiative and its partnerships. 

By connecting young graduates and skilled job seekers with opportunities in e-mobility, and by supporting private companies with talent, BOOST is laying the groundwork for Rwanda’s next chapter in clean, inclusive urban mobility. 

Learn more about the BOOST project