BasiGo, a Kenyan electric mobility frontrunner,has inaugurated the country’s first dedicated assembly line for modern electric buses at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) plant in Thika.This significant development coincides with Kenya’s recent launch of its draft National E-mobility Policy, a clear push towards local EV production and greener transportation solutions.
The new policy aims to establish a supportive legal framework for electric vehicles, including setting sales targets for zero-emission vehicles and outlining investment incentives for domestic manufacturers and assemblers.
This aligns perfectly with BasiGo’s ambitious plans to deploy 1,000 electric buses across East Africa within the next three years.
The Kenyan company is committed to local production as well. BasiGo intends to assemble all 1,000 electric buses in Kenya, creating 300 green jobs in the process.
This approach fosters self-reliance within the Kenyan transport sector and stimulates the local economy.
BasiGo’s efforts are already generating significant interest.
With over 500 confirmed orders from Nairobi bus operators and another 100 reservations from Kigali, Rwanda, the demand for these clean-energy vehicles is undeniable.
The company’s expansion into Rwanda in July 2023, through a partnership with AC Mobility, further underscores its commitment to regional transformation.
This collaboration tackles fleet shortages in Rwanda while promoting sustainable public transport solutions.
Speaking at the assembly line launch, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investments,Trade, and Industry, Rebecca Miano, emphasized the government’s dedication to combating climate change through reduced carbon emissions.
“The transport sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gases,”stated Miano. “Transitioning to electric vehicles offers a sustainable solution to lessen environmental damage and address the adverse effects of climate change.”
