A ban on motorbikes came into force in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on Tuesday.

The city’s authorities imposed the ban in a bid to curb crime after reports emerged that motorbikes were used by thugs to rob residents.

Addis Ababa mayor Takele Uma said a huge number of crimes within the city had been carried out on motorbikes. 

The ban will however not affect businesses including delivery companies that operate in the city.

“Exceptions will be made to those conducting licensed businesses with motorcycles as well as those who use motorcycles as postal carriers and motorcycles affiliated to embassies,” the mayor said last month.

Motorbikes have become popular in Addis Ababa as a way of evading traffic jams.

Other cities around the continent also have similar bans in place, including the capital of neighbouring Kenya, Nairobi.

In Nigeria, motorbikes are not allowed in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcout.

In his announcement of the ban last month, mayor Takele also said Addis Ababa’s authorities would seek more ways to reduce traffic congestion.