TECHSTREAM

Discover the top 10 cities around the world that prohibit motorcycle taxis ( moto-taxis ), why these bans exist, and how urban transport systems influence safety and traffic congestion. Learn how cities balance mobility, safety, and sustainable transport. Motorcycle taxis, also called moto-taxis, are popular in many parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, providing fast and affordable transportation. However, in several major cities around the world, motorcycle taxis are banned or heavily restricted due to safety, traffic management, and regulatory concerns.  In this article, TechStream explores the top 10 cities that prohibit motorcycle taxis and explains why these bans exist, offering insights into urban transport, mobility, and safety.  Why Some Cities Prohibit Motorcycle Taxis Motorcycle taxis often appear where infrastructure is limited and public transport options are insufficient. But in cities with advanced transport systems, moto-taxis are frequently banned becaus...

In a remarkable turn of events, air pollution in Kigali fell by nearly 45 percent during last month’s UCI Road World Championships , according to the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA). On roads closed to traffic during the cycling races, fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) levels dropped dramatically from an average of 47–50 µg/m³ to below 30 µg/m³ at midday.  On alternative routes, pollution also declined by about 30–35 percent while areas untouched by road closures saw little change.  This temporary shift offers a powerful case study in how traffic reductions and urban planning can rapidly improve air quality. For Kigali, already grappling with urban growth, vehicle emissions, and climate pressures, this news provides a blueprint for future interventions. Why Pollution Fell: Lessons from UCI Week During the week of September 21–28, several key measures enabled cleaner air: Major roads were closed to general vehicle traffic to accommodate the cycling events. Passen...

  Kigali is investing millions to restore five wetlands. Learn how engineering is tackling runoff, climate resilience, and boosting eco-tourism. Kigali is reshaping its future with one of the most ambitious environmental projects in the region. The city is rehabilitating five wetlands covering a total of 491 hectares. These wetlands include Gikondo , Rwampara, Rugenge-Rwintare, Kibumba and Nyabugogo . Their restoration is designed to improve flood control , protect biodiversity, and create new opportunities for citizens. The project also builds on Rwanda’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable urban development. The total investment is estimated at 82 million US dollars, which is about 108 billion Rwandan francs . Funding comes from both government resources and development partners. Already, about 30 million US dollars, or 40 billion francs, has been invested in the first phase of conservation works and infrastructure. The project is currently at 67.3 percent comple...

Discover how Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile will transform energy in Africa, boosting renewable power, and fueling both hope and debate across Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan. Imagine a single project that can light up tens of millions of homes, fuel factories, and change the power balance of a region. That’s the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile . Officially inaugurated in September 2025 , it is now Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam —a structure that’s as political as it is powerful. For Ethiopia, GERD is a source of pride and proof of self-reliance. For Egypt and Sudan, it raises tough questions about Nile water management . For the rest of Africa, it’s a sign that homegrown infrastructure can rival anything in the world. From Idea to Mega-Dam              The dream of harnessing the Blue Nile for power isn’t new. Studies were floated in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until 2011 that Ethiopia broke ground on...

When I finished my high school studies, I faced a challenge that many Rwandan and African students with a Physics-Chemistry-Mathematics or other science background can relate to: choosing the right career path. I spent hours researching online, seeking advice, and reflecting on where I fit best. Engineering stood out, and in particular, Water Resources and Environmental Engineering captured my attention. But a critical question soon followed: “What career opportunities will actually be open to me by the time I graduate in this fast-growing industry in Rwanda, Africa, and even globally?” That question inspired this blog — not as a final answer, but as an introduction to the 20 most promising career paths in water and environmental engineering . Across Africa, the sector is booming: the African Development Bank estimates that at least $64 billion annually is needed for water and sanitation to meet the Sustainable Development Goals, while current spending is less than half. Meanwhile, t...