Kenya Takes Bold Step Toward Sustainable Mobility with Launch of Electric Inter-City Matatus
In a major boost to Kenya’s green transport transition, electric mobility company BasiGo has launched the country’s first pilot program for electric matatus on inter-city routes. The initiative is being hailed as a transformative step toward reducing transport emissions and bringing clean energy solutions to the heart of Kenya’s public transport system.
The pilot program, rolled out in partnership with 4NTE SACCO and Manchester Travellers Coach SACCO, signals a critical evolution of electric mobility beyond Nairobi, targeting regional routes that are typically dominated by diesel-powered vehicles.
BasiGo’s new electric vans — which can travel up to 300 kilometers on a single charge — will operate on the Nyahururu–Nyeri, Nyahururu–Nakuru, and Thika–Nairobi corridors. Each vehicle features a quick 1.5-hour recharge time and will be supported by newly installed EV charging stations in Nyahururu and Thika.
“This launch represents more than just innovation — it’s a leap toward climate-conscious mobility for millions of Kenyans,” said Moses Nderitu, Managing Director of BasiGo Kenya. “Electric public transport isn’t just for cities. We’re proving it can be clean, reliable, and effective across regions.”
The vans will be made available under BasiGo’s Pay-As-You-Drive lease model, which significantly lowers the financial barrier for SACCOs and operators transitioning to electric vehicles. The model includes full after-sales support, including servicing and maintenance, and ensures sustainability is not compromised by operational challenges.
For 4NTE SACCO, an early adopter of the technology, the partnership represents an opportunity to modernize while aligning with Kenya’s climate goals. “We’re proud to be pioneers in adopting electric transport for inter-city travel,” said Wilfred Daniel Kimotho, Chairman of 4NTE. “This is about delivering better service while protecting our environment.”
In addition to reducing air pollution and carbon emissions, the program is expected to catalyze green jobs, with BasiGo planning to assemble the electric vans locally. This aligns with Kenya’s broader push to decarbonize its economy, meet its climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, and foster a more inclusive green transition.
With a goal of deploying over 1,000 electric matatus across the country in the coming years, BasiGo is not only reimagining the future of public transport — it is helping write the blueprint for a cleaner, smarter Africa.
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