Kenya’s transition to electric matatu has gained momentum following the launch of a new public service vehicle (PSV) electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Nairobi’s Buruburu Estate by KCB Bank Kenya, the Matatu Owners Association (MOA), and ePureMotion.
The collaboration marks a significant shift from policy commitments to on-the-ground implementation, advancing the transition to electric public transport in Kenya.
Building on a partnership announced in 2024, KCB Bank Kenya committed to financing public transport modernization, including providing asset finance and insurance premium finance to matatu saccos to upgrade their fleets.
Speaking during the launch, KCB Bank Kenya Acting Unit Head for Asset Finance and Insurance Premium Finance, Juliana Kinyua, said the activation reflects the bank’s commitment to financing sustainable and modern public transport across the country.
“KCB’s partnership with the Matatu Owners Association is about unlocking practical financing pathways that allow the public transport sector to modernize at scale.
“The launch of this PSV EV charging site in Buruburu demonstrates how financing, infrastructure and sector coordination with partners such as ePureMotion can come together to support cleaner, more efficient and more affordable mobility for Kenyans.” Juliana said.
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Driving the Shift to Electric Mobility
The new EV charging station demonstrates how financing, industry collaboration and technology can be integrated to accelerate the modernization of Kenya’s matatu sector.
While the public transport sector remains a key driver of the country’s socio-economic growth, it is also a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and air pollution.
The new infrastructure is therefore expected to support the transition to cleaner, more sustainable public transport.
To support this shift, ePureMotion will provide charging infrastructure, maintenance services, spare parts, operator training and, in future, electric matatus and digital tools to help public transport operators improve efficiency.
Meanwhile, KCB Bank Kenya will support eligible public transport investors and saccos through structured financing solutions, subject to normal credit assessment, documentation and approval.
MOA’s Role in the EV Transition
Speaking during the launch, MOA President Albert Karakacha said the initiative positions matatu owners and saccos at the centre of the EV transition by expanding access to financing, infrastructure, training and new commercial opportunities.
“The matatu industry has always been the backbone of everyday mobility in Kenya. Through this collaboration with KCB and implementation support from ePureMotion, MOA is taking a deliberate step to ensure that our members are not left behind in the transition to electric mobility,” said Mr Karakacha.
He added that the association will coordinate and mobilise the matatu sector, identify participating saccos and operators, support member readiness and help ensure the transition creates value for the industry.
Growing the Electric Vehicle Network
The launch builds on Kenya’s National Electric Mobility Policy, unveiled in February to accelerate the adoption of electric transport through supportive infrastructure, innovation and investment.
It also aligns with the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel import costs and leverage its predominantly clean energy grid.
Buruburu charging site will serve as an early demonstration and learning centre for PSV EV operations, including charging, daily vehicle readiness checks, service scheduling and operator training.
Ultimately, the partners expect the model to guide the selection of future charging sites and support rollout across other high-potential matatu routes and Sacco locations.
