03
Nov

Rwanda Energy Group (REG) has called on citizens to avoid making cash payments for its services as part of efforts to combat corruption. Instead, customers are encouraged to use banks and other legitimate digital payment channels.

This message was reiterated on Sunday, November 2, 2025, when REG management and staff joined Kigali residents for the bi-monthly Car-Free Day sports event.

REG Chief Executive Officer, Armand Zingiro, urged the public to refrain from making cash payments for any REG services and to instead use banking systems or digital platforms. He also encouraged citizens to report any suspected cases of corruption to the relevant authorities.

“We urge our clients to not make cash payments to our staff or anyone else pretending to be REG staff. All our services should be paid for through banks or electronic means,” Zingiro emphasized. “Most importantly, we ask the public to report anyone soliciting bribes.”

He noted that REG has taken a firm stance against corruption within the institution through its ongoing “Ruswa Oya” (No to Corruption) campaign.

“This is a commitment we have made as a national energy company to continuously improve our customer service. Our message is simple — Say No to Corruption. It’s a continuous campaign, not a one-time effort, and as an institution, we are determined to eliminate corruption completely,” he added.

The Ombudsman, Madeleine Nirere, commended REG for its anti-corruption campaign, saying such initiatives contribute to eradicating corruption in service delivery.

Nirere noted that most corruption cases occur in service provision, emphasizing the need to improve efficiency and transparency in public services.

“When services are delayed, poorly delivered, or when citizens are charged for services that should be free, corruption takes root,” she said. “We have also observed cases where employees demand ‘transport fees’ from citizens, which is completely unacceptable.”

She further stressed the importance of reforming service delivery systems so that citizens can access services efficiently and on time, reducing the frustration that often fuels bribery. Such reforms, she said, would also help prevent fraudsters from posing as REG employees and extorting money from the public.

The Ombudsman called on citizens to report all corruption cases, noting that community vigilance is key to reducing both the supply and demand for bribes. She also urged institutions to continue public awareness campaigns against corruption.

According to the 2024 Rwanda Bribery Index released by Transparency International Rwanda, REG ranks third among institutions most affected by corruption, with a rate of 7.8%, up from 5.8% in 2023. WASAC followed closely with a rate of 7.2%.

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Together let's: Say No to Corruption