Kenya unveils National Electric Mobility Plan towards a cleaner future

Kenya is taking steps to combat pollution by developing a National Electric Mobility Plan. This plan is part of the country’s National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy (2020-2025) and aims to reduce air pollution.

The Kenyan government is working on the National Electric Mobility Plan as an alternative to waiting for parliamentary approval on tax breaks for importing electric cars by 2024. The plan focuses on creating a clean and green transportation system through measures like adopting an automotive industry charter, providing environmental driver training, and collaborating with the governments of 47 countries for sustainable road traffic management.

To address global warming, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting e-mobility. They aim to encourage public service vehicles, boda boda (motorcycle taxis), and commercial transporters to transition to electric vehicles.

The Kenya National Electric Mobility Plan will complement existing legislation such as the Climate Change Act of 2016 and the Energy Act of 2019, both supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The plan will particularly focus on reducing air pollution in major cities like Nairobi, where numerous mobility start-ups, including BasiGo, have established factories since 2017.

BasiGo, led by engineer Jit Bhattacharya, is an example of a Kenyan start-up contributing to this effort. In collaboration with Associated Vehicle Assemblers (AVA), BasiGo aims to manufacture 1,000 33-seat electric vehicles annually by 2026. This collaboration not only aims to reduce CO2 emissions but also create around 300 green jobs in manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and vehicle maintenance.

Four key points to know about the Climate Change Act of 2016 and the Energy Act of 2019, both supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP):

1. Purpose: The Climate Change Act of 2016 and the Energy Act of 2019 are important laws in Kenya aimed at addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainability. These acts were designed to tackle climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage the use of clean and renewable energy sources.

2. Objectives: The Climate Change Act focuses on establishing a framework for implementing strategies to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. It aims to increase resilience, promote low-carbon development, and integrate climate change considerations into different sectors. The Energy Act focuses on enhancing energy efficiency, encouraging the use of renewable energy, and transitioning to a more sustainable energy sector.

3. Support from UNEP: Both acts have received support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The UNEP is an international organization that assists countries in addressing environmental challenges. Their support signifies the global recognition of Kenya’s efforts in tackling climate change and promoting sustainable energy practices.

4. Implications and Impact: These acts have significant implications for Kenya’s environmental policies and practices. By implementing the Climate Change Act and the Energy Act, Kenya aims to reduce its carbon footprint, improve energy efficiency, and increase the adoption of renewable energy sources. These actions contribute to global climate change goals and position Kenya as an active participant in sustainable development initiatives.

In summary, the Climate Change Act of 2016 and the Energy Act of 2019, supported by the United Nations Environment Programme, play a vital role in guiding Kenya’s efforts toward a greener and more sustainable future. These laws also demonstrate Kenya’s commitment to combating climate change and embracing clean energy solutions.

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