Electric mobility is critical in easing carbon gas emissions in Kenya, Environment CS Aden Duale has said.
Speaking when he officiated the flagging-off of 100 electric vehicles from MojaEV Kenya Limited, he said the event marked a crucial milestone in Kenya's journey toward reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.
"This represents a significant step toward fostering a cleaner and more sustainable transportation sector in the country," Duale said.
He highlighted the critical role of the transportation sector in contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, noting that it currently accounts for approximately 10 per cent of the nation’s total emissions.
With projections indicating that this figure could rise to 17 per cent by 2030 due to population growth and increased industrialization, he called for decisive action to combat rising emissions.
“The transportation sector consumes about 80% of the petroleum products imported into Kenya, making it vital that we transition towards cleaner alternatives,” he stated.
Duale emphasized that the government’s response to this challenge includes prioritizing low-carbon technologies, particularly the adoption of electric vehicles under the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) 2023-2027.
He stressed that the initiative aims not only to reduce transportation sector emissions but also to help Kenya meet its national climate targets.
“By integrating electric vehicles into our transport system, we can make significant strides in improving air quality in our cities,” he added.
The financial implications of this transition were also highlighted during the ceremony. Electric vehicles offer considerable economic relief for taxi drivers, who often struggle with limited access to conventional banking services and rising fuel costs.
“By providing an affordable and sustainable fleet, MojaEV aims to alleviate the financial burdens on these drivers while advancing Kenya’s environmental objectives. This initiative is not just about emissions; it’s about creating a sustainable livelihood for our taxi drivers,” Duale stated.
The introduction of these 100 electric vehicles marks a crucial milestone in Kenya's journey toward transforming its transportation landscape in alignment with climate goals.
“MojaEV’s leadership in this initiative signifies a broader vision for a low-carbon and climate-resilient future, as outlined in the National Vision 2030 and the NCCAP. Our urban transportation sector, particularly in cities like Nairobi, is pivotal to this strategy,” Duale explained.
Duale acknowledged the essential role of private sector leadership in advancing Kenya’s e-mobility agenda.
He commended MojaEV for its proactive approach, stating, “The entry of MojaEV into the electric mobility sector sets a benchmark, fostering sustainable economic opportunities within the taxi industry.”
He further elaborated on the collaborative efforts being made to enhance e-mobility in Kenya.
“Ongoing projects with stakeholders like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Kenya Power, and the World Resources Institute underline the government’s commitment to sustainable urban transportation. These partnerships are vital in reinforcing our commitment to a greener future,” he noted.
Duale urged all stakeholders to recognize that Kenya's green transition depends on collective efforts.
“MojaEV’s leadership is a significant step, but broader transformation requires all businesses to embrace sustainable practices. My Ministry is dedicated to fostering partnerships that lead us towards a resilient Kenya, where both people and nature can thrive,” he stated.
As the new electric vehicles took to the roads, Duale encouraged attendees to view them as symbols of Kenya’s commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future.
“Let us celebrate this milestone as a bold step toward a cleaner Kenya,” he concluded, reaffirming the government’s resolve to drive the nation towards a low-carbon future.