President William Ruto announced that the first 100,000 electric vehicles imported into Kenya will be exempt from import duty as the government moves to accelerate the country’s transition to clean energy transport.
Speaking during a live address from State House Mombasa on Friday, Ruto said the tax exemption will apply to both privately owned electric vehicles and public service vehicles. He said the move is part of broader efforts to reduce Kenya’s dependence on fossil fuels and protect the country from continued global fuel price shocks.
The President said electric mobility is becoming an important part of Kenya’s long-term energy and transport strategy, adding that the government wants to encourage more people and businesses to switch to electric vehicles.
Government Push for Electric Mobility
Ruto also revealed that the government has already ordered 3,000 electric vehicles through the Ministry of Interior for use by security and administration officers across the country.
He said the government is working together with private investors to establish electric vehicle manufacturing plants locally in a bid to position Kenya as a regional hub for clean energy mobility.
According to the President, Kenya must continue embracing electric transport and renewable energy to reduce the country’s exposure to instability in the global fuel market.
Focus on Energy Security and Public Transport
Ruto further said Kenya is working with East African partner states and the private sector to commercialize oil reserves in Turkana and other parts of the region while also pursuing the development of a regional refinery.
He explained that the plans are aimed at reducing dependence on international fuel supply chains and improving the country’s long-term energy security.
The President added that the government is also accelerating investments in renewable energy, modern public transport systems and other energy infrastructure projects to help future generations avoid the impact of global fuel instability.
