African governments have steadily embraced the opportunities that vehicle electrification holds, and this is largely attributable to commitments to improving urban air quality, reducing the reliance on imported fuels, improving local automotive manufacturing, or reaching climate mitigation targets.
Countries in East and West Africa, which often rely on two- and three-wheelers, especially in their informal public transport systems, are also increasing their EV fleets. For countries such as Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, challenges related to the adoption of EVs and motorcycles include high initial costs, limited charging infrastructure, and infrastructure adaptation, and these are steadily being addressed through the introduction of legislation like the Draft E-Mobility Policy of Kenya and the National Electric Mobility of Uganda.
Currently, as a net importer of EVs, Africa must reposition itself to harness its competitive advantages, including access to mineral reserves required for battery-making, renewable energy potential, growing labor force, among others, to ensure steady growth of the EV sector.
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