Nairobi
Tuesday, 11 June, 2024
By Felix Mogaka
In a bold move towards sustainable transportation, the Kenyan Government has announced an ambitious plan to replace over 13,000 fuel-injected motorcycles with electric variants.
This initiative, spearheaded by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, aims to revolutionize mobility and service delivery across various locations and sub-locations nationwide.
This decision aligns with Kenya’s commitment to combating climate change and promoting eco-friendly solutions at the grassroots level.
The first phase of this green transition involves distributing 22 electric motorcycles in a pilot project covering Kajiado, Kiambu, Machakos, and Nairobi counties.
“Besides mobilizing wananchi at the location and sub-location levels to grow trees, the use of electric motorcycles by the administrators boosts our climate action efforts at the grassroots,” said PS Omollo.
He further noted that these 22 motorcycles would benefit administrators in the four counties mentioned.
More motorcycles will be distributed as part of a pilot project expected to last a month before a phased roll-out targeting all parts of the country.
“This initiative, covering twenty-two locations within the four counties, aims to enhance the efficiency of NGAOs in service delivery, solving challenges of transport and supporting our commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable solutions,” Omollo said.
The Introduction of electric motorcycles aligns with global trends and commitments to combat climate change.
This government initiative is in line with international efforts to adopt green technologies and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Priority will be given to vast counties and remote areas facing security challenges to facilitate easy e-mobility for officers.
The government’s approach includes training officers on the use and maintenance of the electric motorcycles, ensuring a smooth transition to this new mode of transportation.
This move is part of a broader global trend towards the electrification of transportation, as seen in the Biden-Harris Administration’s recent opening of applications for a $1.3 billion funding opportunity to expand the electric vehicle charging network in the United States.
As Kenya takes this significant step forward, it sets an example for other nations to follow in the pursuit of a greener future and more efficient public service delivery.