Electric Transport Gaining Ground In Nairobi Kenya

By Moraa Nyangorora

Public Transport Goes Electric: Kenya's Journey Towards Sustainable Mobility

@basigo

Local start-up BasiGo is leading the charge with electric buses now running under popular saccos such as Super Metro and Embassava.

“Every trip we make cuts emissions and lowers operating costs for drivers,” says BasiGo CEO Jit Bhattacharya. “Passengers love the smooth, quiet ride.”

Kenya Bus Service (KBS) recently added its first electric bus to the fleet. The operator plans to expand charging infrastructure at depots. This is a sign that e-buses are moving from the pilot stage to the mainstream.

The Rise of the Electric Boda

In the motorcycle taxi sector, change is visible on Nairobi’s streets. Uber Kenya has rolled out electric bodas through its “Electric Boda” option.

The company reports that trips surged by over 90% in the past year. Riders benefit from cheaper running costs.

“I save almost half of what I used to spend on fuel. The battery swap takes minutes, and I’m back on the road,” says Peter Mwangi, an Uber boda rider.

Climate Action in Motion

Transport contributes nearly 20% of Kenya’s greenhouse gas emissions. Under its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), Kenya has pledged a 32% cut in emissions by 2030. The shift to electric mobility is a cornerstone of that pathway.

Energy expert Brian Nyangena of Verst Carbon puts it simply:

“Clean mobility is climate action you can see on the streets. Every electric bus or boda not only reduces emissions but also makes our cities healthier.”

The Road Ahead

Challenges remain—upfront costs, charging networks, and financing models.

However, with Kenya’s grid already powered by more than 80% renewables, the climate payoff from e-mobility is immediate and significant.

Kenya’s electric transport story is no longer just about pilots; it’s about scale. As more passengers, riders, and operators make the switch, the road to a low-carbon future looks promising.

“Transport accounts for nearly 40% of energy-related emissions in Kenya. Electric mobility isn’t just a trend—it’s a climate necessity,” says Dr. Joyce Msuya, a climate policy expert.

The Economic Benefits of Electric Mobility

Switching to electric transport is not just an environmental decision; it also makes economic sense.

Matatu operator Peter Kamau, who runs one of the Embassava Sacco electric buses, shares:

“Switching to an e-bus cut my fuel costs by nearly half. Passengers appreciate the quiet ride, and I know I’m contributing to cleaner air in the city.”

Motorcycle riders are also excited about this mode of mobility for its fuel efficiency, resulting in more profits.

“I save up to KSh 300 daily on fuel. For me, it’s not just business—it’s a chance to be part of climate solutions,” says Janet Achieng, an Uber boda rider.

The Role of Policy in Driving Change

Kenya’s updated NDCs commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 32% by 2030. Electric mobility provides a practical pathway, tackling urban pollution, reducing oil imports, and powering transport with Kenya’s renewable-rich grid.

E-buses. E-bodas. Clean power. Kenya is driving climate action.

“With over 90% of our electricity coming from renewables, e-mobility makes Kenya a global leader in sustainable transport,” says Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira.

Community Engagement and Awareness

To ensure the success of electric mobility, community engagement is crucial.

Awareness campaigns can help citizens understand the benefits of electric transport.

Workshops and informational sessions can demystify electric vehicles and encourage more people to consider them as viable options.

The Future of Electric Transport in Kenya

Electric mobility is now fully on the road, carrying passengers, riders, and the nation toward climate resilience.

However, electric transport uptake in Kenya remains limited by high vehicle costs, insufficient charging infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, and low public awareness. ,

Only about 9,000 EVs were registered nationwide, mostly electric motorcycles concentrated in urban areas.

These constraints, coupled with regulatory gaps and expensive battery maintenance, slow adoption despite growing interest and policy support.

Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Communities Worldwide Draw the Line: Fossil Fuel Phase-Out and the Push for Renewables

By Moraa Nyangorora

From Belem to Nairobi, activists demand a fast and fair transition to renewable energy ahead of COP30.

Movements in 93 countries are uniting under the banner, Draw the Line, to demand an end to fossil fuel expansion, pushing for a just transition.

A press release, "Movements Worldwide Draw the Line Against Genocide, Injustice, Fossil Fuels, and Call for Rights, Jobs and Justice" (issued 15 September 2025), quotes protestors demanding " a feminist, fast, fair, funded and forever phase out of fossil fuels, investment in renewable energy, and resilient food systems"

Anne Jellema, chief executive of 350.org, put it bluntly:

“This mobilisation is about power, people's power. The power to reject the lies of fossil fuel billionaires and remake our world for the many, not the few. We are drawing the line, because when governments fail to act, we rise”.

This unity of communities around the globe adds impetus to climate change efforts.

The timing is significant, as the U.S, one of the largest and leading historical emitters, pulled back from international climate commitments.

People taking the lead under this movement may just be the pressure needed to end fossil fuels.

Activists planned thousands of actions across the globe, including strikes, festivals, marches and cultural events.

The movement has people mobilised from across cities; Johannesburg, New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Karachi, New York, Nairobi, Lahore, Paris, Berlin, Jakarta, Tokyo, Dhaka, Manila, Cotonou, Ottawa, Melbourne, Suva, London and B.elem

For Global South leaders, the US disengagement deepens the urgency for reparations. Dr Arjun Kumar Karki of Rural Reconstruction Nepal reinforces this reality.

"We demand the full delivery of climate finance obligations of the global North for urgent climate action, including Just Transition. This is a crucial part of their reparations for historical and continuing harm to our people."

The movement opposes what it describes as false technological fixes that powerful states promote instead of genuine commitments.

The rallying call from participating countries is urgent action to protect the planet.

Tasneem Essop, the Executive Director, said that the climate situation is a crisis that needs urgent action.

"The global movement is rising up to respond to the moment with the launch of this action. Youth, women, communities across our ravaged planet are drawing the line against those fighting to keep us locked in a world of pollution, exploitation, wars and injustice".

SOLUTIONS IN MOTION

Indigenous-led solar microgrids in the Amazon.

Wind cooperatives among fisherfolk in Asia.

Biogas innovations by African smallholder farmers

 “From Fossils: The 4 Steps of a Just Transition”

Phase Out Fossil Fuels

Scale Up Renewables

Fund Climate Action

Create Green Jobs

How Africa Leads in Climate Action: Africa Sustainability Efforts in Focus

Africa is often seen as a continent vulnerable to climate change, but it is also a powerful leader in climate action. Across the continent, innovative solutions, community-driven projects, and bold policies are shaping a sustainable future. I want to take you through how Africa is not just responding to climate challenges but leading the way in sustainability efforts that inspire the world.

Africa Sustainability Efforts: A Growing Movement

Africa’s sustainability efforts are rooted in its unique challenges and opportunities. The continent faces severe climate impacts like droughts, floods, and desertification. Yet, these challenges have sparked creativity and resilience. Countries are adopting renewable energy, protecting forests, and promoting sustainable agriculture.

For example, Kenya has become a global leader in geothermal energy, tapping into the Rift Valley’s volcanic activity to generate clean power. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and creates jobs. Similarly, Rwanda’s commitment to banning plastic bags shows how policy can drive environmental change.

Community involvement is key. Many projects empower local people to manage natural resources sustainably. In Senegal, women’s groups lead mangrove restoration efforts, which protect coastlines and support fisheries. These grassroots actions build climate resilience from the ground up.

Solar energy powering rural Africa

Renewable Energy: Powering Africa’s Green Future

Renewable energy is at the heart of Africa’s climate action. The continent has vast potential for solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power. Harnessing these resources reduces carbon emissions and expands energy access.

South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) is a standout example. It has attracted billions in investment and added thousands of megawatts of clean energy to the grid. This program shows how public-private partnerships can accelerate green growth.

Solar energy is transforming lives in remote areas. Off-grid solar kits provide electricity for lighting, charging phones, and running small businesses. This not only cuts emissions but also improves education and health outcomes.

To support these efforts, governments and international partners must continue investing in infrastructure and training. Expanding renewable energy access is essential for sustainable development and climate resilience.

Agriculture and Land Use: Sustainable Practices for Food Security

Agriculture is both a victim of climate change and a contributor to emissions. Africa’s sustainability efforts include adopting climate-smart agriculture to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact.

Agroforestry, which integrates trees with crops and livestock, is gaining traction. It improves soil health, conserves water, and provides additional income from timber and fruit. In Ethiopia, farmers practicing agroforestry have seen better yields and greater resilience to drought.

Conservation agriculture techniques like minimal tillage and crop rotation help maintain soil fertility. These methods reduce erosion and increase carbon sequestration. Governments and NGOs are training farmers in these practices to scale up impact.

Protecting forests is also critical. Forests store carbon and support biodiversity. Countries like Gabon and the Democratic Republic of Congo are working to reduce deforestation through community forest management and sustainable logging.

Terraced farming supporting sustainable agriculture in East Africa

Technology and Innovation: Driving Climate Solutions

Technology plays a vital role in Africa’s climate action. From mobile apps to satellite data, innovation helps monitor environmental changes and improve resource management.

Drones are used to map forests and track illegal logging. Mobile platforms provide farmers with weather forecasts, market prices, and advice on sustainable practices. These tools empower communities to make informed decisions.

Startups across the continent are developing clean tech solutions. For instance, companies are creating affordable solar-powered irrigation systems that boost crop yields while conserving water. Others focus on waste management innovations that turn trash into energy or compost.

Supporting tech hubs and innovation centers is crucial. They nurture local talent and connect entrepreneurs with funding and expertise. This ecosystem accelerates the development and adoption of climate-friendly technologies.

Policy and International Collaboration: Africa’s Voice on the Global Stage

Africa’s leadership in climate action extends to policy and diplomacy. The continent actively participates in global climate negotiations, advocating for fair financing and support for adaptation.

The African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Renewable Energy Initiative set ambitious goals for sustainable development and clean energy. These frameworks guide national policies and regional cooperation.

International partnerships are vital. Programs like the Green Climate Fund provide resources for projects that reduce emissions and build resilience. African countries are also collaborating on cross-border initiatives, such as the Great Green Wall, which aims to restore degraded lands across the Sahel.

Effective policy requires transparency, accountability, and inclusion. Engaging local communities, especially women and youth, ensures that climate action is equitable and impactful.

Moving Forward: Building on Africa’s Climate Leadership

Africa’s climate action journey is inspiring and ongoing. To build on this momentum, we need to:

• Increase investment in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.

• Strengthen community engagement to ensure local ownership of projects.

• Promote innovation by supporting startups and technology hubs.

• Enhance policy frameworks that align with global climate goals.

• Foster international cooperation that respects Africa’s priorities and knowledge.

  
  

By embracing these steps, Africa can continue to lead the way in sustainability. The world is watching, and the continent’s example shows that climate action is not just necessary - it is possible and powerful.

For those interested in learning more about climate action Africa, there are many inspiring stories and resources available. Together, we can support and amplify these efforts for a healthier planet.

Tree planting as part of reforestation efforts in Africa

Africa’s sustainability efforts are a beacon of hope. They remind us that with determination, innovation, and collaboration, we can face the climate crisis head-on and create a thriving future for all.