Kenya Nears Completion of National Electric Mobility Policy
NAIROBI — Kenya is poised to finalize its National Electric Mobility Policy, a strategic framework designed to shift transportation from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to electric vehicles (EVs), affirming the country’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions.
According to Kenya News Agency, Vice Chairperson of the Electric Mobility Taskforce, the policy is crucial for supporting Kenya’s transition to e-mobility, aligning with the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) 2023-2027 and other long-term environmental targets. The Taskforce is concluding public participation sessions in key cities, including Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nairobi, Machakos, Mombasa, Isiolo, and Nyeri, gathering insights and recommendations to integrate into the policy framework.
During a forum in Mombasa, Seii outlined the objectives of the e-mobility policy, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner transportation methods. She highlighted that the policy covers the entire EV mobility value chain, aiming to foster a green economy and sustainable transportation practices across the country. “This policy will establish a profitable and secure environment for users transitioning from ICEVs to EVs,” Seii mentioned, addressing concerns such as vehicle affordability and range anxiety.
The taskforce’s efforts are part of a broader commitment by the Kenyan government to align with global environmental goals, which include substantial reductions in carbon emissions by 2030. Seii noted that the rapid adoption of electric bicycles, motorcycles, TukTuks, and buses since 2018 reflects growing momentum, with 4,047 EVs currently registered nationwide.
In Mombasa, Dan Manyala, County Executive Member for Transport, discussed local initiatives supporting the e-mobility transition, such as the development of an industrial park aimed at assembling EVs and the installation of additional charging stations. “We are working on incentives like tax rebates to encourage the establishment of more charging points and to make EVs more affordable through policies such as VAT exemptions on spare parts,” Manyala explained.
Feedback from local transport operators, including Benson Njoroge, Chairman of the Mombasa Tuktuk Operators, has been incorporated into the policy discussions. Njoroge emphasized the need for addressing the durability and cost-effectiveness of electric TukTuks and ensuring reliable power supply to support the functioning of EVs.
Agnew Omanga, Secretary General of the Tuktuk Association, expressed optimism about Mombasa’s trajectory towards e-mobility, indicating a strong regional support for the national policy’s objectives.