Kenya Pioneers Electric Buses in Move Toward Sustainable Transport
In an ambitious effort to modernise its public transportation system and reduce urban pollution, Kenya has embarked on a significant initiative to integrate electric buses into its fleet. Spearheading this transformation is Roam, a technology firm specialising in electric vehicles specifically designed for the African continent.
Established in 2017 with funding from Swedish investors, Roam initially made its mark by electrifying existing buses and later expanded into manufacturing electric motorcycles. By 2022, the company had achieved global recognition as a finalist in Prince William’s Earth Shot Prize, highlighting its contributions to sustainable technology.
Strategic Partnership to Boost Local Production and Employment
Roam’s latest project involves collaborating with County Bus Service (CBS) to deploy ten electric buses by the end of 2024, aiming to expand to a fleet of 200 by 2026. This initiative seeks to mitigate environmental issues like air pollution and aims to foster local economic growth by manufacturing these vehicles within Kenya.
This venture is supported by a blend of local and European financial backers, providing CBS with feasible asset financing options that, it is claimed, reduce the total cost of ownership by as much as 50%, thereby making the adoption of electric buses more feasible.
Impact on Public Transport and Road Safety
CBS Chairman Hon. Jessee Wanyeki noted that the transition to electric buses will stabilise fare prices. By lessening the dependency on fluctuating fuel costs, operators can offer consistent fares, simplifying budgeting for providers and commuters.
This shift is crucial, as road safety in Kenya remains a pressing concern. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) reported a 7% increase in road fatalities in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year. Critics argue that while the NTSA has strategies to curb these incidents, including a new National Road Safety Action Plan to halve fatalities by 2027, effectiveness and transparency in enforcement are lacking.
Road Safety Initiatives and Infrastructure Challenges
Recent measures by the NTSA, such as mandatory bi-annual vehicle inspections and the implementation of new, high-tech number plates, have stirred controversy over their actual impact on safety and security. Meanwhile, infrastructure to support the electric buses, like charging stations, is being rolled out, with Roam establishing several depots to serve the growing fleet.
Economically, the production of electric buses is expected to create job opportunities and develop local manufacturing capabilities. The collaboration between BasiGo and Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) has already led to creating a high-volume assembly line for electric buses, marking a significant advancement in Kenya’s automotive industry.
Future Prospects and Government Involvement
Kenya’s government has shown strong support for this transition through various policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. This includes substantial investments by Kenya Power, which has allocated funds to develop additional charging infrastructure to support the growing number of electric vehicles.
As the project progresses, Kenya’s success in shifting to electric public transportation could serve as a model for other nations, particularly in developing regions where urbanisation and environmental concerns present similar challenges.
This initiative represents a critical step forward in Kenya's commitment to sustainable development and urban mobility. It could potentially alter how Kenyans commute while contributing to global efforts to combat urban air pollution.
Image courtesy of Roam.
