Kenya Reaffirms Commitment to Fast-Tracking EV Transition

The Kenyan government has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the country’s shift to electric mobility. Speaking at the Africa EV Mobility Show Kenya 2025 in Nairobi, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira outlined the key policies guiding this national transition.

Government Targets 10,000 Charging Stations by 2030

Wachira, represented by Assistant Director Erick Apunda, said Kenya aims to lead EV adoption in East Africa and across the continent. He confirmed that the government remains on track to install 10,000 electric vehicle charging stations by 2030. Moreover, he noted that these stations will form the backbone of the national EV ecosystem.

In addition, Wachira highlighted the Kenya Electric Mobility Policy, now before Parliament, which proposes tax reforms to make EVs more affordable.

Experts Cite High Taxes as Main Barrier to EV Uptake

Independent mobility expert Eng. Michael Muchiri explained that electric vehicles remain too costly for most consumers. He noted that EVs cost two to three times more than petrol or diesel models. Therefore, he said reducing taxes will be essential for increasing adoption.

Muchiri stressed that tax reform must support consumers who want to shift from fossil-fuel vehicles to electric models.

Africa EV Mobility Show Brings Top Industry Players Together

The expo, held at The Edge Convention Centre, brought together over 100 global and regional industry players. It was organised by MIE Events DMCC with Global Exhibitions Inc and supported by the Ministry of Roads and Transport. Additionally, the State Department for Transport backed the event to promote sustainable mobility solutions.

Local EV Assembly Seen as Key to Lowering Costs

Experts at the forum argued that local EV assembly using CKD kits offers the most practical path to affordability. They urged dealers to begin with assembly and later move toward local component manufacturing. Furthermore, they highlighted National Treasury incentives, including a 50% tax reduction for companies that manufacture at least 30% of their EV units locally.

Kenya Positions Itself as a Continental EV Leader

With more than 90% of its electricity generated from renewable sources, together with an expanding manufacturing base and robust investor incentives, Kenya is steadily positioning itself as a continental leader in electric mobility. Consequently, the government believes this strategy will stimulate industrial growth, reduce reliance on imports, and create new employment opportunities for young people.