Kenya has launched a groundbreaking financing model aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric motorcycles among small businesses and boda-boda riders. The programme, unveiled at Roam’s Nairobi Assembly Plant, addresses a major hurdle in the country’s transition to clean mobility: the high upfront cost of electric two-wheelers.
Roam’s Regional Sales Operations Manager, Habib Lukaya, emphasized that access to financing not technology has been the biggest barrier to electrification. “With Fortune Credit on board as a trusted local financier, we are removing that barrier,” Lukaya said.
Roam’s locally assembled Air Gen 2 motorcycle comes equipped with a swappable battery and access to a growing network of charge-swap kiosks. The company also operates a service hub in Machakos and plans to expand further.
Fortune Credit, a microfinance institution known for serving clients often excluded by traditional banks, is leading the financing side of the project. Chair Bernard Mwonyoyo described the loan product as a dignified pathway for riders affected by climate change and economic hardship. Each loan includes rider health insurance that pays out during hospitalization to prevent loan default.
“Fortune Credit serves those others would not dare touch,” said Mwonyoyo. “Today, we’re not just launching a loan; we’re offering dignity and access.”
The initiative is supported by the Green for Access Fund, a concessional finance facility managed by GreenMax. Managing Director David Ekabouma explained that the fund helps reduce risk for lenders, allowing more flexible terms. The first tranche will finance over 600 motorcycles, all equipped with telematics for tracking and maintenance.
“This isn’t just a bike it’s a livelihood,” Ekabouma stated. “We are planting a flag that says clean energy belongs to everyone.”
Government support is also growing. The 2024 Finance Act has zero-rated import duty on e-bike components, and draft e-mobility regulations propose a dedicated electricity tariff for charging. Speakers at the event called on county governments to fast-track licensing for battery-swap kiosks and to prioritize electric fleets in last-mile delivery tenders.
With this initiative, Kenya is taking bold steps toward a greener, more inclusive transport future.
