By Jemima Nalumansi

In the news this week, we saw tax proposals by the Ministry of Finance among which, was tax exemption on electric cars manufactured in the country as well as electric vehicle charging equipment assembled in the country.

In the region, Addis Ababa has implemented a complete ban on fuel motorcycles, phasing them out in favour of electric ones; no new licenses will be issued for fuel-powered motorcycles and the existing ones shall be converted to electric models. Quite the step! Additionally, last month, our neighbour Kenya launched their draft national electric mobility policy whose mission is to create a pathway towards sustainable, efficient & equitable transportation powered by e-mobility.

In recent years, the global automotive industry has witnessed a paradigm shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) as a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transportation. While the adoption of EVs has been prominent in several developed regions, the question arises: Are we, as East Africa, ready for electric vehicles? The resounding answer is yes, and here's why.

Abundant Renewable Energy Resources

East Africa is blessed with abundant renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. These resources provide a conducive environment for the adoption of electric vehicles, as they offer a clean and sustainable source of energy for charging EV batteries.

Growing Infrastructure for Electric Mobility

Governments and private sector entities across the region are increasingly investing in the development of infrastructure to support electric mobility. This includes the establishment of EV charging stations in urban centers and along major highways, as well as the implementation of supportive policies and incentives to encourage the uptake of EVs.

Rising Environmental Awareness

There is a growing awareness of the environmental challenges posed by traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles, including air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, consumers in East Africa are becoming more conscious of the need to transition towards cleaner transportation options, such as electric vehicles, to mitigate environmental degradation and climate change.

Cost-Effectiveness of Electric Vehicles

While the initial purchase price of electric vehicles may be higher than that of conventional vehicles, the long-term operating costs are significantly lower. Electric vehicles have lower consumption and maintenance costs, making them a more cost-effective option for consumers in the long run, particularly in regions with volatile fuel prices like East Africa.

Government Support and Incentives

Governments in East Africa are increasingly implementing policies and incentives to support the adoption of electric vehicles. This includes tax breaks, subsidies, and exemptions on import duties for electric vehicles and related components. Such measures help to make EVs more affordable and accessible to a wider segment of the population.

Technological Advancements

The rapid advancement of electric vehicle technology has resulted in the development of more efficient batteries with longer ranges and faster charging times. These technological innovations address some of the key concerns regarding EVs, such as range anxiety, and make them more practical for everyday use in our urban and rural settings.

Private Sector Initiatives

The private sector in East Africa, including automotive manufacturers, energy companies, and transportation service providers, is increasingly embracing electric mobility as a viable business opportunity. This has led to the introduction of electric vehicle models tailored to the specific needs and preferences of East African consumers, as well as innovative business models for EV charging and mobility services.

To conclude, East Africa is well-positioned to embrace the transition towards electric vehicles as part of its efforts to promote sustainable development and combat climate change. The region has all the necessary ingredients for a successful shift towards electric mobility and by leveraging these opportunities, we can join other African countries like Ghana, Mauritius, Tunisia and South Africa on the path towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for transportation.

The writer is with Bloomberg Road Safety Project Coordinator, KCCA