Incentives for adoption of electric mass transit systems

The Kenya Kwanza government promised to create incentives for the adoption of electric mass transit systems in all cities and towns.

The government launched the National Electric Mobility policy in February 2026. The Policy proposes incentives to lower the cost of ownership of EVs, including VAT exemptions and usage benefits like parking and lane privileges.
Despite the foregoing, there was an attempt, through the Finance Bill, 2026, to reclassify the supply of electric bicycles and electric busses as exempt rather than zero-rated goods, which would have increased the cost of the EVs. The proposal was, however, dropped.
The government has also implemented measures to make running electric mass transit more viable than diesel alternatives:
- Kenya Power offers a 70% discount for off-peak charging (KSh 8 per kWh) compared to peak rates (KSh 16 per kWh) and regular domestic rates (~KSh 20 per kWh).
- Kenya Power also undertook to install 45 EV charging stations across six counties, and currently operates EV charging stations at Ruaraka, Donholm and Stima Plaza in Ngara.
- Launched green plates to help differentiate EVs, which will eventually grant them preferential treatment in traffic and parking per the National Electric Mobility Policy.

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This Promise Tracker is an independent civic-accountability tool designed to monitor and document the progress of public commitments made by the Government of Kenya. Information presented on this platform is compiled from publicly available sources including government publications, parliamentary records, policy documents, and credible media reports. The classifications used in this tracker represent an evidence-based assessment by the platform’s researchers and should be understood as analytical judgments rather than official government determinations. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and regular updates, the status of promises may evolve as new information becomes available. This website is not affiliated with or operated by the Government of Kenya.

Last updated: August 30, 2026 3:32 am