In a bold move to revolutionize Kenya’s vibrant public transport sector, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA) is spearheading a nationwide push to transition from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs).
This ambitious shift toward e-mobility promises to reshape the matatu industry, delivering cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective transport solutions for millions of daily commuters while addressing pressing environmental and economic challenges.
At a recent stakeholders’ forum in Murang’a, industry leaders, drivers, and stakeholders rallied behind this transformative vision, calling for supportive regulations, robust infrastructure, and comprehensive training to ensure a seamless transition.
A Call for Self-Regulation and Clear Guidelines
MOA President Albert Karagacha, a vocal advocate for the adoption of electric matatus, emphasized the need for the industry to take ownership of this transition.
Speaking at the Murang’a forum, Karagacha urged the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to provide clear, practical guidelines to facilitate the integration of EVs into public service transport.
However, he stressed that matatu Saccos—cooperative societies that manage matatu operations—are well-equipped to enforce discipline and standards among their members without excessive government oversight.
“We want Saccos to be left to do self-regulation, while NTSA should just give the guidelines,” Karagacha asserted. “Our aim is to reduce road carnage, cut fuel costs, and create new jobs as we adopt clean mobility. We also urge the government to take the initiative of training drivers on how OMA services operate across the country.”
Karagacha’s vision is rooted in the belief that the matatu industry, a cornerstone of Kenya’s transport ecosystem, can lead the charge toward sustainability while maintaining its operational autonomy.
By empowering Saccos to regulate themselves, the MOA aims to foster a sense of ownership and accountability, ensuring that the transition to EVs is both effective and sustainable.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of Electric Matatus
The shift to electric vehicles is poised to deliver significant economic and environmental benefits for matatu operators and commuters alike.
According to Karagacha, EVs could slash operational costs by up to 40%, offering much-needed relief from the burden of fluctuating fuel prices.
With Kenya’s matatu sector consuming vast amounts of fossil fuels annually, the adoption of EVs could save billions of shillings, redirecting those savings into fleet expansion, infrastructure development, and improved services.
Beyond cost savings, the transition to e-mobility is expected to create a wave of new employment opportunities. From charging station attendants to technicians and battery specialists, the EV ecosystem will open up diverse career paths for Kenya’s youth.
“The adoption of electric vehicles will not only reduce our reliance on fossil fuels but also create new avenues for employment,” Karagacha noted. “This is a win-win for the industry and the economy.”
Environmentally, electric matatus promise to significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to Kenya’s broader climate goals.
By replacing diesel-powered vehicles with cleaner alternatives, the matatu sector can play a pivotal role in combating air pollution and mitigating the effects of climate change in urban centers like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
Overcoming Infrastructure Challenges
While the benefits of electric matatus are clear, the transition is not without its challenges. George Muriithi, Chairman of OMA Services, highlighted the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of EVs.
“The electric vehicles are cost-saving, but we urge Kenya Power Company to deploy more charging stations across the country,” Muriithi said. “This will save time for operators and ensure a reliable power supply.”
Strategically placed charging hubs along high-traffic routes, such as Nairobi–Thika–Murang’a, could accelerate the adoption of EVs by addressing range anxiety and ensuring operational efficiency.
Muriithi emphasized that with the right infrastructure in place, matatu Saccos would be eager to embrace the technology. “If we have the right infrastructure, there will be no turning back. Every Sacco will want to join this journey,” he added.
The lack of charging stations remains a significant hurdle, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where matatus are a lifeline for millions.
To address this, the MOA is calling for public-private partnerships to fast-track the development of charging networks, ensuring that EVs are a viable option for operators across the country.
A Driver’s Perspective: Smooth, Fast, and Eco-Friendly
For matatu drivers, the shift to electric vehicles represents a welcome change. Daniel Morara, a driver with OMA Services, expressed enthusiasm for the new technology, noting its superior performance and environmental benefits.
“Compared to conventional diesel matatus, electric vehicles are fast and very environmentally friendly,” Morara said. “They’re easier to operate because they require less maintenance, and we no longer have to deal with constant mechanical breakdowns.”
Passengers, too, are noticing the difference. Electric matatus offer smoother, quieter, and more comfortable rides, enhancing the overall commuting experience.
“Passengers have started appreciating the difference,” Morara added. “They describe the rides as calm and enjoyable, a stark contrast to the noisy, bumpy diesel matatus.”
A Vision for a Cleaner, Safer, and More Affordable Future
The MOA’s push for electric matatus aligns with Kenya’s broader vision of sustainable development and innovation in the transport sector.
By embracing e-mobility, the matatu industry has the potential to set a global example for how public transport can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.
The rollout of electric matatus could reduce road accidents caused by mechanical failures, lower operational costs for operators, and provide commuters with a cleaner, safer, and more affordable way to travel.
To realize this vision, the MOA is calling for a collaborative effort involving government agencies, private sector partners, and industry stakeholders.
Key priorities include expanding charging infrastructure, providing driver training programs, and developing financing models to make EVs accessible to small-scale operators.
With these measures in place, the MOA believes that electric matatus could become the backbone of Kenya’s public transport system within the next decade.
The Road Ahead
As Kenya’s matatu industry charges toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, the transition to electric vehicles represents a pivotal moment.
The MOA’s proactive stance, coupled with the enthusiasm of drivers and the promise of economic and environmental benefits, sets the stage for a transformative shift in public transport.
By addressing infrastructure challenges and fostering collaboration, Kenya can pave the way for a new era of mobility—one that is greener, safer, and more inclusive for all.
For matatu operators, commuters, and policymakers alike, the message is clear: the future of Kenya’s public transport is electric, and the journey has already begun.
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