With a retail price of Sh150,000, these e-boda boda are poised to become an accessible and eco-friendly alternative for commuters and riders across the nation.

By Brian Magiri, 2/9/2023.

President Ruto riding an electric bike during the launch in Mombasa.

In a groundbreaking move to transform Kenya’s transportation landscape and usher in a new era of sustainable mobility, President Ruto officially unveiled the eagerly awaited electric motorcycles, colloquially known as “e-boda boda,” on Friday, September 1, 2023. This historic event, which took place three months after President Ruto’s announcement during Madaraka Day celebrations, marks a significant leap towards greener and more efficient transportation options for the nation.

The electric motorcycles, set to revolutionize Kenya’s bustling boda boda industry, are the result of President Ruto’s commitment to promoting clean energy and enhancing local production capabilities. With a retail price of Sh150,000, these e-boda boda are poised to become an accessible and eco-friendly alternative for commuters and riders across the nation.

Spiro, a renowned electric motorcycle manufacturer with a successful presence in Togo, Benin, Rwanda, and now Kenya, is the driving force behind this transformative initiative. President Ruto’s vision to localize the production of electric bikes aligns perfectly with Spiro’s mission to bring sustainable transportation solutions to the African continent.

The e-boda boda, designed and manufactured by Spiro, boast an impressive feature: they require only a single charge, conveniently done at night. This innovation not only saves riders the hassle of frequent recharging but also contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles. It is a leap forward in addressing environmental concerns while meeting the growing demands of Kenya’s transportation sector.

President Ruto, during the launch event, expressed his optimism about the electric motorcycles, emphasizing their potential to boost the nation’s economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He stated, “With the introduction of these electric motorcycles, we are not only modernizing our transportation systems but also creating job opportunities in the local manufacturing industry. Kenya is taking a significant step towards becoming a leader in sustainable transportation in Africa.”

The e-boda boda launch received enthusiastic support from various stakeholders, including environmentalists, entrepreneurs, and riders. Many see this initiative as a game-changer for the boda boda industry, which plays a crucial role in Kenya’s daily commute and urban mobility.

As Kenya embraces these electric motorcycles, the nation moves closer to a cleaner and more efficient transportation future. President Ruto’s commitment to promoting green technology and local production not only aligns with global efforts to combat climate change but also positions Kenya as a pioneer in sustainable transportation solutions on the African continent.

With the e-boda boda now on the roads of Kenya, the journey towards a greener, more eco-conscious nation has begun, thanks to the vision and determination of President Ruto and the innovative spirit of companies like Spiro. As the sun sets on this historic day, it rises on a brighter, more sustainable future for Kenya’s transportation industry.