By:
Kanto Kai Okanta
Kenya’s
electric mobility (e-mobility) sector is rapidly evolving from concept to
reality, with industry leaders calling for coordinated action to sustain
long-term growth. The remarks came during the E-Mobility Side Event at
#KIICO2026, hosted by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM).
KAM
Chief Executive, Tobias Alando highlighted key actions needed to advance the
sector, including aggregating demand across public and commercial fleets to
attract large-scale investment and integrating regional markets to expand
opportunities for manufacturers. He noted that Kenya’s strong renewable energy
base, fast-tracked charging infrastructure approvals, and skilled workforce
from universities and TVET institutions position the country favorably for
local production.
Alando
also emphasized that Kenya is approaching economic viability for local
component manufacturing in high-volume segments such as motorcycles, where
existing demand can support localization. He called for demand consolidation,
platform standardization, and development of supplier ecosystems to ensure
consistent, high-volume production.
Development
partners present at the event reaffirmed support for bridging policy gaps,
stressing the importance of coordinated demand, regional market integration,
and policy consistency to stimulate local manufacturing, tooling, and supply
chain development.
The
event concluded with a consensus that unlocking Kenya’s e-mobility potential
requires unified execution, supportive policies, infrastructure readiness, and
strategic partnerships, positioning the country as a potential hub for
sustainable industrial growth and innovation in Africa.
