Kenya is leading East Africa’s shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) with a strong focus on building a reliable charging network. By prioritizing infrastructure, the country aims to reduce its $4 billion annual petroleum import bill while supporting cleaner transportation. Kenya’s approach combines government policies, private sector investments, and renewable energy integration, making EVs more accessible and practical.
Tanzania, still in the early stages of EV adoption, has about 15 public charging stations in 2025, mostly in Dar es Salaam. With plans to expand to 500 stations by 2030, the country has an opportunity to learn from Kenya’s experience. By implementing modern charging technologies, creating supportive policies, and encouraging private investment, Tanzania can build a strong foundation for its EV market.
Key Takeaways:
- Kenya’s Progress: Advanced charging infrastructure, government-backed policies, and renewable energy use.
- Tanzania’s Potential: Early-stage network with plans for rapid growth, leveraging lessons from Kenya.
- Challenges: Kenya faces urban-rural gaps and outdated systems; Tanzania needs significant investment and policy development.
For Tanzania to succeed, it must focus on:
- Developing clear regulations for EV adoption.
- Investing in advanced charging solutions.
- Encouraging partnerships between public and private sectors.
Kenya’s progress offers a roadmap for Tanzania, showing how collaboration and planning can accelerate EV adoption across East Africa.
The Kenyan Pilot Installing Electric Vehicle Chargers In Kenya
1. Kenya’s EV Charging Infrastructure
Kenya is laying the groundwork for electric vehicle (EV) adoption by combining government initiatives, private sector creativity, and cutting-edge technology. The country’s focus on building a reliable charging infrastructure is a key step toward a sustainable EV future.
Charging Station Availability and Network Growth
Kenya has embraced a "network-first" approach, utilizing the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI) protocol. This system allows drivers to access multiple charging networks with a single account, eliminating the hassle of juggling multiple apps or payment methods. By streamlining the charging experience, Kenya is making EV ownership more practical and appealing.
Government Policies and Regulatory Framework
The government’s draft E-mobility Policy is a cornerstone of Kenya’s EV strategy. It emphasizes standardization and interoperability, requiring adherence to global standards like the Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP) and ISO 15118. These measures ensure compatibility and safety across different EV models. Additionally, Kenya Power is exploring renewable energy solutions to support the growing EV ecosystem, aligning with the country’s broader sustainability goals.
Private Sector Innovation and Investment
Kenya’s private sector is playing a pivotal role in advancing EV charging solutions. Companies like Solar Freeze are introducing scalable solar-powered charging stations, while Linncell Technologies focuses on micro solar off-grid systems. BasiGo, on the other hand, is making EVs more affordable through its battery-as-a-service model, which reduces the upfront cost of ownership.
Technology Integration and Innovation
Kenya is also pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance its EV infrastructure. Battery-swapping stations, for instance, allow two- and three-wheelers to "recharge" in just 3–5 minutes. With over 90% of the national grid powered by renewable energy sources like geothermal, hydro, and solar, the country is well-positioned to establish green charging hubs. Local companies are also innovating in battery technology. For example, Enviroserve, in collaboration with Ecomobilus, is repurposing second-life lithium cells to create sustainable battery solutions. Smart charging technologies further optimize grid usage by adjusting charging times based on energy demand and the availability of renewable power. These advancements not only strengthen Kenya’s EV ecosystem but also set a strong example for neighboring countries like Tanzania.
2. Tanzania’s EV Charging Potential
Tanzania is just beginning its journey into the electric vehicle (EV) space, but the outlook is encouraging. As of 2025, the country has around 15 public charging stations, most of which are located in Dar es Salaam. These stations primarily feature Level 2 chargers, which provide moderate charging speeds and are suitable for locations where vehicles are parked for longer periods. However, DC fast chargers – capable of significantly reducing charging times – are starting to make an appearance. Much like Kenya’s earlier efforts, Tanzania is now preparing for a faster pace of development in this sector.
The numbers hint at a growing market. Tanzania’s EV market is expected to grow from $0.04 billion in 2025 to $0.22 billion by 2030. To keep up with this expansion, the country has ambitious plans to increase the number of charging stations from the current 15 to 500 by 2030, aiming for a 10:1 ratio of EVs to charging stations. Both public utilities and private companies are stepping up to lay the groundwork for this evolving infrastructure.
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Pros and Cons
When comparing Kenya’s established EV charging infrastructure with Tanzania’s emerging potential, several notable differences highlight the opportunities and challenges for each country’s approach.
| Aspect | Kenya’s Strengths | Kenya’s Weaknesses | Tanzania’s Strengths | Tanzania’s Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure Scale | A well-developed network with strong urban coverage | Limited reach outside major cities | Chance to integrate modern technologies from the start | Early-stage network focused on select key areas |
| Policy Framework | Established regulations and government backing | Bureaucratic hurdles slowing expansion | Room for streamlined policy creation | Lacks a comprehensive EV policy framework |
| Private Sector Engagement | Strong participation from established private firms | High competition in key markets | Open environment attracting new investments | Private sector involvement is still nascent |
| Technology Adoption | Diverse charging technologies to meet various needs | Some outdated infrastructure requiring upgrades | Ability to introduce modern solutions from the outset | Limited deployment, with slower charging options favored |
| Market Maturity | Proven consumer interest in urban areas | Struggles with maintaining and upgrading older systems | Opportunity to build a competitive market at lower costs | Consumer adoption remains in early stages and uncertain |
This comparison highlights key strengths and weaknesses, offering lessons for both markets to consider.
Kenya’s EV charging infrastructure benefits from efficient scaling and strong public–private collaborations. However, it faces challenges in modernizing older systems to keep pace with evolving technology. Its urban-focused network is effective for concentrated hubs but struggles to extend services to rural areas.
Tanzania, on the other hand, has the advantage of starting fresh. It can introduce cutting-edge charging systems and policies tailored to current needs. Yet, scaling up its network will require significant investment, and the country’s diverse geography adds logistical hurdles.
Financial systems also play a pivotal role. Kenya’s established payment methods can serve as a model, while Tanzania has the opportunity to create inclusive financing options from the ground up. Additionally, Kenya’s experience with integrating renewable energy offers valuable insights, though Tanzania will need to design energy solutions that align with its unique landscape and resources.
Conclusion
Kenya’s progress in developing its EV charging ecosystem offers valuable insights for Tanzania as it works to establish its own. Kenya’s strategic initiatives and advancements in technology present a practical example for Tanzania to follow.
One of the most important takeaways is the role of strong public-private partnerships. For Tanzania, creating policies that attract private sector investment while ensuring government oversight and support should be a top priority. This balanced approach has been critical for rapidly scaling EV infrastructure in other markets.
To kickstart its EV charging network, Tanzanian stakeholders should focus on three key actions:
- Develop a regulatory framework that encourages both infrastructure growth and EV adoption.
- Invest in advanced charging technologies right from the beginning to ensure cost efficiency and a seamless user experience.
- Establish inclusive financing options to make EV ownership accessible to a broader population.
By adopting these strategies, which reflect Kenya’s achievements, Tanzania can set a solid foundation for its EV ecosystem.
Tanzania has the unique advantage of learning from Kenya’s journey, allowing it to build a more cohesive and forward-looking infrastructure. With well-crafted policies, state-of-the-art charging solutions, and financing models that cater to both urban and rural areas, Tanzania can ensure widespread EV adoption.
The potential for Tanzania is immense. Leveraging Kenya’s successes while incorporating modern technologies and inclusive financial models could position Tanzania as a leader in EV infrastructure across the region.
FAQs
How is Kenya’s EV charging network inspiring Tanzania’s plans for electric mobility?
Kenya’s strides in establishing an electric vehicle (EV) charging network provide some key takeaways for Tanzania as it works on its own electric mobility framework. With ambitious targets – like setting up 10,000 charging stations by 2030 – and a government investment of $2 million, Kenya has laid the groundwork for widespread EV adoption.
Some of the standout strategies include offering tax breaks, crafting policies that support e-mobility, and focusing on expanding infrastructure. These steps highlight the critical role of combining government backing, technological advancements, and thoughtful planning. Tanzania can draw inspiration from these efforts, tailoring them to its specific needs to speed up its shift to electric vehicles.
What challenges could Tanzania face in building its EV charging network, and how can they be addressed?
Tanzania faces several obstacles in its journey toward adopting electric vehicles (EVs). These include a shortage of charging stations, high electricity prices, an unstable power grid, and limited public awareness about EV technology. Together, these challenges could hinder the establishment of a dependable EV charging network.
To address these issues, Tanzania could tap into renewable energy sources like solar and hydropower. These options not only lower electricity costs but also help stabilize the grid. Government support, such as offering tax breaks or subsidies, could attract investments in EV infrastructure. Public education campaigns would also play a key role in informing people about EVs and boosting consumer trust. In areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking, off-grid and solar-powered charging stations could bridge the gap, especially in remote regions, making EVs more accessible for everyone.
What can Tanzania learn from Kenya’s approach to integrating renewable energy into EV infrastructure?
Tanzania has a lot to gain by looking at Kenya’s progress in blending renewable energy with its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Kenya has implemented policies that actively encourage the use of renewable energy, ensuring that EV charging networks are not only functional but also eco-friendly. If Tanzania adopts a similar approach, it could speed up its shift to clean energy while laying the groundwork for a strong EV ecosystem.
One of Kenya’s key strategies has been expanding its renewable energy capacity and strengthening its grid to support EV charging, even in areas where grid access is limited. Tanzania could take inspiration from this by focusing on developing infrastructure and renewable energy projects that align with its specific needs and circumstances. This would pave the way for a sustainable EV network that’s prepared for the future.
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