ACES in Kigali Gains UK F-Gas Certification to Boost Sustainable Cooling

The certification, announced by the F-Gas Register, confirms that ACES engineers meet UK-approved F-gas qualifications in line with DEFRA requirements. The centre is now subject to the same standards as other UK-recognised entities operating in stationary refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump sectors.

Dr. Leyla Sayin, ACES Executive Officer, met with ACES Technical Director Basile Seburikoko to present the certification, marking a major step forward for the Kigali-based centre.

“Receiving the Company F-Gas Certificate confirms that our systems, equipment, and technical practices meet internationally recognised standards,” Seburikoko said. “This certification enables ACES to provide services to companies and institutions in Rwanda at an international level, while supporting the country’s transition to climate-friendly cooling technologies.”

Graeme Fox, Director of Schemes at The F-Gas Register, praised the centre’s development. “We appreciate the huge effort that has gone into establishing this training centre in Rwanda. We wish the centre the very best for their future delivering up-skilling and certification for technicians and engineers in Kigali and other centres across the developing world,” he said.

ACES combines certified services with hands-on equipment demonstrations to build skills, ensure compliance, and raise standards in Rwanda’s refrigeration and air-conditioning sector.

The centre is supported by DEFRA, the Rwandan government, UNEP, and UK academics led by the University of Birmingham. It is the first of its kind in Africa, focused on creating sustainable, resilient, and equitable cooling and cold-chain systems while promoting local talent, expertise, and innovation.

“With this certification, ACES strengthens its ability to work closely with industry, training institutions, and government stakeholders to advance sustainable cooling in Rwanda,” Seburikoko added.