Uber Kenya is the latest mobility sector player that has embraced President William Ruto's campaign for electric motorbikes

 

Uber Kenya is the latest mobility sector player that has embraced President William Ruto's campaign for electric motorbikes. President William Ruto speaking at a past event. Photo: State House Kenya. Source: Facebook Ruto promised to roll out over 200,000 e-boda boda productions in the country starting September 2023 to accelerate e-mobility adoption and empower youth. The digital taxi-hailing firm launched electric motorbike ride operations - the first ever in Africa - on Thursday, August 31, in Nairobi. Impact of Uber electric motorbikes in Kenya Uber Head of Communications, East & West Africa Lorraine Onduru said the e-boda bodas are for the company's mobility (rides) business. "For passengers, a trip on the e-motorcycle will cost 15-20% less than existing products. Drivers enjoy about a 30-35% reduction in running costs because some expenses, such as fuel, will be eliminated," said Onduru in response to TUKO.co.ke. Onduru noted that the over 3,000 e-boda bodas are great for the environment as they eliminate carbon emissions and are eco-friendly. The announcement came ahead of the government's launch of electric motorcycles in Mombasa. Ruto's electric motorbike launch Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria said that the president will be presiding over the launch of the e-boda boda at Mama Ngina Waterfront on Friday, September 1. Ruro said his government plans to offer affordable electric motorbikes to boda boda operators. Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations at Moi Stadium in Embu County, Ruto said the scheme will caution the sector from high fuel prices and exploitation from lenders. Electric vehicle and motorcycle experts welcomed the initiative by the government, saying it will revolutionise boda boda transport in the country. Roam Electric Chief Product and Strategy Officer Albin Wilson said the move will be cost-effective in terms of fuel, adding that the batteries last up to 75 kilometres.  BY TUKO NEWS