A new initiative aims to make electric motorcycles more accessible to Kenya’s boda boda riders, particularly young people and women.
Roam, an electric mobility company, has partnered with digital credit provider 4G Capital to offer a financing program under the Jiinue Growth Program, backed by the Mastercard Foundation.
The program provides boda boda operators with an affordable path to owning an electric motorcycle. Riders can acquire a Roam Air bike with a deposit of KES 25,000 and daily payments of KES 460 over 24 months.
An extra battery requires an additional KES 5,000 upfront and KES 207 per day. The financing structure aligns with the daily income model of most riders, making ownership feasible without significant financial strain.
A key advantage of the electric motorcycle is cost savings. Compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles, Roam Air allows riders to save around KES 500 per day in operational expenses.
The bike’s portable charging feature also enables flexible recharging, with an 80-kilometer ride costing approximately KES 80 in electricity.
The initiative seeks to lower financial barriers to clean mobility while offering economic opportunities for entrepreneurs.
By reducing fuel and maintenance costs, electric motorcycles present a potentially more profitable option for riders. However, adoption challenges remain, including charging infrastructure limitations and battery replacement costs.
Stakeholders involved in the partnership emphasize the dual benefits of sustainability and economic empowerment. Roam highlights its commitment to making mobility affordable and inclusive, while 4G Capital positions the financing model as a tool for financial growth.
As Kenya moves toward sustainable transportation, such initiatives may be critical in accelerating the shift to electric mobility. The program’s long-term impact on the boda boda industry and overall e-mobility adoption will depend on its affordability, accessibility, and infrastructure support.
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