Overview

The Subnational Climate Fund (SCF) is providing technical assistance to a company that supports the scale-up of locally produced electric motorcycles and buses in Kenya. The initiative addresses the country’s reliance on polluting petrol vehicles by offering affordable, climate-friendly transport alternatives tailored to African road and market conditions.

Through investments in local frame production, solar-powered battery-swapping infrastructure, and workforce training, the project reduces emissions, lowers costs for drivers, and builds Kenya’s green industrial capacity. A new EV factory in Nairobi—East Africa’s largest—anchors the initiative with potential to produce over 100,000 units annually.

The Challenge

Kenya’s transport sector is dominated by imported fuel-powered motorcycles, especially in the boda boda (motorcycle taxi) industry, which sustains over 5 million livelihoods according to the Motorcycle Assemblers Association of Kenya (MAAK). These vehicles are expensive to operate, pollute urban air, and contribute significantly to national emissions. Limited charging infrastructure and heavy dependence on imported parts constrain both affordability and local job creation.

SCF’s Involvement – Technical Assistance

SCF is supporting a feasibility study to strengthen the project’s operational, environmental, and financial foundations. Key activities include:

• Robotic welding system design for efficient frame production
• Supplier audits and certification to meet quality and safety standards
• Environmental and social compliance aligned with IFC and national guidelines
• Training programs for digital quality control and safe manufacturing
• Financial modeling to validate investment plans and improve resilience
• Digital twin development to optimize production and maintenance systems