By Yemi Olakitan
It gladdens the hearts to notice the remarkable progress that Africa is making towards sustainable renewable energy in the automobile sector. Take Nigeria as an example, Nigeria is building remarkable momentum for EVs and it is evident that it has the potential to become a leader in electric mobility in Africa.
Nigeria has made some progress in electric vehicle (EV) adoption in recent years, despite facing challenges such as low income, unstable electricity, and a new oil refinery. Here are some of the achievements and initiatives that Nigeria has undertaken to promote EVs.
In June 2021, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo unveiled the first made-in-Nigeria EV, the Hyundai Kona by Stallion Motors in Nigeria while In April 2021, the National Automotive Design and Development Company inaugurated Nigeria’s first EV charging station at Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto State.
Similarly, In October 2023, an American EV manufacturer, SAGLEV, announced plans to open an EV assembly plant in Lagos, which would produce affordable and low-maintenance EVs for the Nigerian market In March 2022, a report by Energy for Growth Hub recommended policy actions to accelerate EV adoption in Nigeria, such as creating incentives, standards, and regulations for EVs, developing renewable energy sources, and building public awareness and education. Experts note that if the trends persist Nigeria will meet its national renewable energy needs in the automobile industry.
Furthermore, Electric Vehicle experts at DriveElectric have unveiled a remarkable surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption across the globe, with African nations making significant strides in this eco-conscious revolution.
The research, focusing on EV sales year-on-year, brings to light the countries experiencing the most substantial increase in electric vehicle sales, and South Africa emerges as a frontrunner with a staggering 127% growth in the past year.
The research follows a surge in electric vehicle start-ups across Africa that are transforming the transportation sector in many nations. Fuelled by eco-consciousness and innovation, these companies are shaking up mobility, creating jobs, and contributing to a greener future.
South Africa’s electric boom
South Africa’s electric vehicle market has witnessed a phenomenal transformation, with EV sales skyrocketing by 127% in the last year. This unprecedented growth reflects a growing awareness among South African consumers regarding the environmental impact of traditional vehicles, coupled with the government’s initiatives to promote clean and sustainable transportation.
South Africa’s success mirrors a broader trend across the African continent. Nations like Morocco, Kenya, and Rwanda have also witnessed a surge in electric vehicle adoption, reflecting a collective shift towards greener transportation alternatives. These developments align with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
In South Africa, for instance, incentives such as tax breaks, reduced registration fees, and investments in charging infrastructure have spurred interest in EVs. Similar initiatives in other African nations have contributed to the rapid growth in electric mobility, making it an attractive and viable choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Africa’s increasing embrace of electric vehicles not only signifies a move towards cleaner transportation but also showcases the continent’s commitment to a sustainable future. With advancements in technology, a growing charging infrastructure, and a changing mindset among consumers, electric vehicles are becoming an integral part of Africa’s transportation landscape.
Challenges and opportunities
While the progress is promising, challenges remain, warn the researchers. The need for further investment in charging infrastructure, technological advancements, and policy frameworks is evident.
However, these challenges are viewed as opportunities for innovation and collaboration, with governments, private sectors, and communities working together to overcome obstacles and accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
As South Africa and several other African nations lead the charge in electric vehicle adoption, the continent stands at the forefront of a green transportation revolution. With each electric vehicle on the road, Africa moves closer to a cleaner, sustainable, and environmentally friendly future, setting an inspiring example for the rest of the world to follow.
Ghana Experiences Success in Eco-Friendly Vehicles
A close look into eco-friendly electric vehicles (EVs) in Ghana shows that that country is poised to tackle its logistics and delivery challenges as well as transform the country’s nascent last-mile delivery market using EVs.
YomYom, the logistics marketplace, is pioneering a fleet of 20 e-bikes to its extensive set of vehicles, particularly suited for manoeuvring through rugged terrain and remote locations, ensuring goods reach their destinations efficiently.
It operates an extensive fleet of over 100 vehicles, also including motorcycles and cargo trucks. Its transportation network spans across the northern areas of the country.
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With strategically located offices in Ejiu, Konongo, Kumasi, and Tamale, the latter housing both the head office and a branch office, and the recent addition of a presence in Bolgatanga, the company has solidified its footprint in key regions.
The addition of e-bikes is hailed as the beginning of a green initiative that aims to increase the electric vehicle count by 200 units by the end of the first quarter of 2024.
“This strategic shift not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also positions us at the forefront of environmentally conscious transportation solutions,” Mohammed Iddi, founder of YomYom, told CAJ News Africa.
As it expands, the company has pledged to a mission to connect small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to logistics solutions that are accessible, affordable and sustainable.
“We leverage technology and local knowledge to improve efficiency and reach,” Iddi said.
YomYom utilizes advancements in mobile tech for route optimisation and real-time order tracking as well as integrating local knowledge into our delivery processes to overcome potential hurdles presented by weather, local customs, and inconsistent addressing systems.
“We acknowledge the myriad challenges that persist in Africa, from our poor road infrastructure to limited technological access and unfavourable policies that often hinder the growth of startups,” Iddi said.
The company however believes therein lies opportunities, and pledges to demonstrate that the delivery sector in Africa is not merely surviving but thriving on resilience and adaptability.
“In the face of adversity, we have discovered that these challenges, once conquered, can be transformed into opportunities that drive progress and innovation.”
According to Strait Research, the African last-mile delivery market is poised to reach US$2,35 billion in value, boasting a compound annual growth rate of 8,45 per cent.
The World Bank has identified logistics as a pivotal contributor to a nation’s overall economic development.
YomYom believes its services have streamlined access to essential goods, eliminating the need for arduous journeys, and catalysed economic growth by expanding market reach and fostering local commerce.
Its expansion has created job opportunities, both within the delivery service and related industries as well as improving healthcare outcomes through the delivery of medical supplies to remote areas.
Rwanda’s Progress in EV Adoption
Rwanda has made significant progress in promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption as part of its vision to transform its economy and reduce its environmental impact. According to a strategic paper by the Ministry of Infrastructure. Rwanda has introduced various incentives to encourage EVs, such as exempting electric cars, their spare parts, batteries and charging station equipment from VAT, import and excise duties and offering a subsidized electricity tariff for charging EVs.
Rwanda also Provides rent-free land for charging bays and Supports public and private partnerships to develop charging infrastructure and EV services.
Some of the initiatives that have been launched or planned in Rwanda include Volkswagen’s pilot project of e-Golf cars and the Move ride-hailing app in Kigali.
EvPlugin’s network of 200 public chargers across the country, in partnership with the government and energy companies
Kabisa’s electric mobility ecosystem aims to provide affordable and accessible EVs, charging stations, battery swapping and solar power solutions
Rwanda’s EV push has faced some challenges, such as the high initial cost of EVs, the lack of consumer awareness and trust, the uneven road infrastructure and the technical issues of battery performance and durability.
However, the government and the private sector are working together to overcome these barriers and make Rwanda a leader in electric mobility in Africa.
