In 2021, Jonathan Green and Jit Bhattacharya were confronted by the inadequacies of existing public transport systems in Kenya and the unutilised surplus of grid power generated from renewable energy sources. In the face of insufficient transit operations, Green and Bhattacharya sought to innovate by introducing electric buses to public transport systems. Seen through the lens of the Institute of Economics and Peace’s frameworks for ecological sustainability outlined in the 2023 Ecological Threat Report, BasiGo centre objectives of reducing carbon emissions, transitioning from fossil fuels, improving urban air quality, and developing a more sustainable and affordable public transit system in East Africa.
Emerging as a global leader in clean energy adoption, research from the International Energy agency indicates that in 2021, 90% of the energy generated and consumed in Kenya was derived from renewable, hydro- and geothermal-power sources, as well as solar and wind farms. Culminating in excess, BasiGo strategically headquartered in Nairobi, to leverage this renewable energy surplus, which provided an ideal foundation for their project.
Diesel-powered matatus and taxis have been the backbone of urban mobility in Kenya, and also significantly contribute to air pollution and carbon emissions for the country. The Institute for Economics and Peace’s 2023 Ecological Threat Report underscores the urgency of addressing such environmental challenges, highlighting the need for innovative solutions that reduce carbon footprints and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. BasiGo aims to provide an affordable, cleaner alternative.
The project is not limited to mitigating environmental concerns and acknowledging the interconnectedness of climate crises and social unrest or conflict, Green and Bhattacharya also seek to improve urban quality of life with BasiGo. The 2023 ETR emphasises that Nairobi is estimated to become a megacity by 2050, with a projected population of over 14 million people. It divulges that the drastic population spike will strain natural resources and cause an incapacity to house growing numbers, resulting in a significant decrease in levels of peacefulness. Taking these sentiments into consideration, Jit Bhattacharya states, “the shift to clean, electric buses signifies more than just environmental impact” it is also a chance for Kenya “to establish itself as a manufacturing hub for modern EVs and their components”. Hence, the BasiGo project is estimated to create 300 new manufacturing jobs, as well as 300 new jobs in infrastructure, vehicle servicing and manufacturing, and electric vehicle financing. According to IEP research, this would improve peacefulness by mitigating economic instability and income insecurity. BasiGo’s electric buses offer a promising solution to these long-standing issues.
Launching in early 2022, BasiGo began with piloting two electric buses. In less than two years it has expanded its felt to over 28 vehicles operating across Kenya, and has established a growing presence in Rwanda. This rapid expansion is a testament to the viability and appeal of electric public transport in the region and the readiness of local transport operators and the public to embrace cleaner, more sustainable mobility options.
At the core of BasiGo’s innovation is a sound business model that prioritises an equitable distribution of resources. Recognising the financial strains of the transition to an entirely new public transport system, the company prides itself on a pay-as-you-drive system. By reducing upfront costs for public transport operators, the company seeks to democratise access to electric vehicle technology, making the transition financially feasible for local operators and accelerating the transition to greener public transport.
In collaboration with Kenya Power, BasiGo is establishing a network of powering stations along key routes, ensuring that the buses can be reliably recharged using the country’s predominantly renewable grid electricity and addressing a primary concern of electric vehicles – range anxiety. With strategically placed charging stations, operators can be confident in the ability of their buses to complete their routes without interruption. BasiGo is also working with the Africa REMI program to equip its existing workforce with the skills necessary to assemble and maintain the vehicles. This training and skills-based learning goal would then extend to increasing the workforce and creating a reliable, knowledgeable and resilient team. It also reflects a desire to expand the project nationally and create better public transport systems for East Africa.
The Kenyan government has also strongly supported BasiGo’s initiative, recognising its alignment with national plans to implement a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network using environmentally friendly vehicles. This government backing has been crucial in attracting investors and solidifying BasiGo’s position in the market. The company’s efforts dovetail with Kenya’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and improving urban mobility. BasiGo is helping the country move closer to its sustainable development targets by providing a practical and scalable solution.
BasiGo faces several challenges in implementing its innovative electric bus solution despite its progress. These include the need to adapt vehicle designs to local road conditions, which can be more demanding than those in other parts of the world. High import taxes on fully built electric vehicles also pose a financial hurdle.
Additionally, the initial lack of charging infrastructure and support systems in many African cities presents both a challenge and an opportunity for companies like BasiGo. By addressing these issues head-on, the company is resolving immediate complications and laying the groundwork for a broader electric vehicle ecosystem across the continent.
The environmental impact of BasiGo’s initiative is already measurable. The company reports a reduction of over 1,000 tons of CO2 emissions since its inception. This figure, while significant, represents just the beginning of the potential impact as the fleet continues to grow.
Beyond the environmental benefits, BasiGo’s project is having a positive economic impact. It’s creating new jobs in green technology, from manufacturing and maintenance to infrastructure development. Moreover, by offering more economically viable transport options for operators and passengers, BasiGo contributes to the overall efficiency and affordability of public transport in Kenya.
As cities across East Africa grow and develop rapidly, the demand for efficient, clean, affordable public transport increases. BasiGo’s pioneering electric bus initiative represents more than a technological upgrade to Kenya’s transport system. It is a comprehensive approach to urban mobility that addresses environmental, economic, and social challenges. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability, lighting the way towards a cleaner, more efficient urban future.
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