A Review Of Kenya's Automotive Sector: Localization & Energy, Two Sides Of The Same EV Coin - CleanTechnica

The article reviews Kenya's automotive sector with a focus on the dual role of localization and energy in advancing electric vehicle (EV) adoption. It emphasizes that EVs are no longer a theoretical opportunity but a practical solution aligned with Kenya’s urgent national priorities: job creation, public health improvement, and fiscal strengthening. The article argues that localization should extend beyond vehicle assembly to include the integration of Kenya’s abundant renewable energy resources, which currently supply over 90% of the country’s electricity. EVs, whether locally assembled or imported, run entirely on this locally generated clean power, displacing fossil fuel imports and fostering local job creation across multiple sectors. Kenya’s competitive advantage lies in its renewable energy capacity and youthful workforce, making the country well-positioned to leverage EV adoption as a driver for industrialization and economic growth. The article highlights that shifting even 10% of new vehicle registrations to EVs would significantly reduce urban pollution, lower noise, and cut operational costs for consumers. It also presents a medium