Kenya’s EV sector accelerates as MojaEV plans local assembly and exports, backed by renewable power and supportive government policy.
Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) industry is gaining speed. MojaEV Kenya Ltd., a Nairobi-based EV distributor, plans to start local assembly in August 2025. The company, which currently imports fully built EVs from China, wants to turn Kenya into a launchpad for Africa’s electric mobility.
According to Erick Lumallas, an aide to MojaEV’s chief executive, the company will begin by assembling units at Associated Vehicle Assemblers Ltd. (AVA) in Mombasa. Later, it plans to build its own plant with capacity for battery packs and solar-powered components. The goal: cut import costs, boost local value addition, and prepare for exports across Africa.
Why Kenya Is an Ideal Base
Kenya stands out in Africa’s EV race for two key reasons: clean energy and regional access.
Over 90% of its electricity comes from renewable sources such as geothermal and hydropower. This makes EV adoption far greener than in countries still reliant on fossil fuels. Similarly, Ethiopia is positioning itself as an unlikely pioneer of EVs.
“Kenya provides an ideal base for electric mobility thanks to its renewable-heavy power mix and strategic export access to East and Central Africa,” Lumallas said.
MojaEV already sees opportunities in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zambia. By assembling locally, it hopes to lower prices and compete more effectively in these growing markets. The approach mirrors strategies used in China, which became the world’s EV powerhouse through large-scale domestic production.
Strong Policy Support
Government incentives are another driver of Kenya’s EV growth. The country’s EV policy offers tax breaks and duty exemptions to local assemblers.
The Ministry of Energy is also working on expanding charging networks in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. With these measures, the government expects EVs to account for 5% of new vehicle registrations by 2025, and nearly 15% by 2030 as infrastructure expands.
This policy direction aligns with Kenya’s wider push for green growth, showcased at the Africa Climate Summit 2023, where President William Ruto urged African nations to embrace clean technologies.
Rising Competition
MojaEV joins a market already energized by innovative startups. Roam is deploying electric motorcycles, while BasiGo is introducing electric buses in Nairobi.
These players have shown that EVs can deliver real savings. A Financial Times report highlights how lower running costs make EVs attractive for commercial fleets in Africa, even when upfront costs remain high.
MojaEV’s entry adds scale to the equation. By assembling vehicles locally and eventually making batteries, the company could push EV prices lower and drive wider adoption.
The Long-Term Vision
MojaEV’s ambitions go beyond assembly. Its roadmap includes:
- Battery production to reduce dependence on Asia.
- Solar integration systems to power off-grid charging in rural areas.
- Regional exports to East and Central Africa.
As The Guardian notes, African economies increasingly see green technology as a way to leapfrog traditional industrial models. MojaEV’s plan aligns with that vision—building a homegrown EV ecosystem from the ground up.
Challenges Ahead
Still, the path is not without obstacles. EVs remain expensive compared to second-hand petrol cars, which dominate Kenya’s market. Charging infrastructure is also limited, especially outside major cities.
Experts warn that public-private partnerships will be essential. Without them, EV adoption may remain confined to fleets and high-income consumers.
Global supply chain issues are another risk. Key materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel remain vulnerable to price spikes and shortages, which could delay local battery production.
Yet Kenya’s renewable power base and supportive policy create a strong foundation. The country has already positioned itself as a leader in Africa’s climate transition, and the EV sector fits directly into that role.
Conclusion: Driving Toward a Greener Future
MojaEV’s investment marks a turning point for Kenya’s EV industry. With renewable energy, government incentives, and regional market access, the country is well placed to become a hub for EV assembly and exports.
Global outlets such as Bloomberg, Reuters, and the Financial Times have all noted Kenya’s growing role in Africa’s green economy.
The next five years will determine whether Kenya can scale up like Asia’s EV pioneers—and in doing so, set the pace for sustainable transport across Africa.
