Kenya Deepens Green Tech Commitment with New National Initiatives
NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenyan government, in partnership with private sector leaders and international donors, has launched a sweeping new strategy to accelerate the adoption and manufacturing of green technologies across the nation. Announced at the State House on Monday, the comprehensive plan targets key sectors including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and e-mobility, aiming to solidify Kenya’s position as a continental leader in the green economy. With over 90% of its electricity already generated from renewable sources like geothermal, wind, and solar, the nation is now shifting focus to downstream integration, job creation, and technology export.
The strategy is anchored by several concrete pillars: a significant tax incentive package for companies assembling or manufacturing solar panels, lithium-ion batteries, and electric vehicles locally; the establishment of a new Green Innovation Fund to support startups; and a nationwide E-Bodaboda program to help motorcycle taxi riders transition to electric models. These initiatives build upon Kenya’s established successes, such as the Lake Turkana Wind Power project and the booming off-grid solar sector led by companies like M-KOPA Solar. We are moving beyond just harnessing clean power to building a complete ecosystem of technology, skills, and industries around it, explained Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir.
Reaction from the business and environmental communities has been largely positive. This policy framework provides the clarity and support we need to scale local production and reduce our reliance on imports, said James Mwangi, CEO of an emerging Nairobi-based e-mobility startup. However, some analysts urge attention to infrastructure gaps, such as the need for a more extensive network of EV charging stations, particularly outside major urban centres. The government has acknowledged these challenges, citing planned public-private partnerships to develop the necessary infrastructure.
The long-term outlook positions green technology as a central engine for Kenya’s economic development. Officials project the creation of tens of thousands of new green-collar jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance over the next decade. Furthermore, by fostering local expertise and production, Kenya aims to become a net exporter of affordable green tech solutions to neighbouring countries, turning its climate-conscious investments into a source of regional influence and sustainable growth. As President William Ruto stated at the launch, Our green ambition is not just an environmental imperative; it is the bedrock of our next industrial and economic revolution.