In Rwanda, a significant shift to electric motorbikes is not only reducing emissions but also transforming the lives of drivers, particularly young people, by providing economic opportunities and fueling a greener future.

In Kigali, more than half of the vehicles on the roads are “moto-taxis,” serving as the backbone of the country’s transport system.

However, these conventional motorcycles contribute to climate change. The emergence of a fast-growing electric motorbike start-up in Kigali, Ampersand, is transforming transportation by introducing e-motorbikes that cut emissions and help drivers save money.

Ampersand’s electric motorbikes are equipped with lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, providing a smooth, silent ride of up to 100 kilometres per charge.

These battery-powered motorcycles are gradually replacing traditional, polluting vehicles, inspiring a start-up wave in East Africa.

With over 30 million commercial motorcycles in Africa, the shift to electric motorcycles offers significant benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and increased income for drivers.

Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand, highlights the substantial savings for drivers using e-motorcycles, amounting to about $700 per year.

In a country where the average monthly wage is $188, this represents a significant increase in income. Ampersand’s operations have grown in Rwanda and Kenya, with over 2,200 e-motorcycles, 300 employees, and 26 charging stations in Rwanda alone, demonstrating the rapid expansion of electric mobility in the region.

The company’s focus on sustainable practices extends to its workforce, with a commitment to hiring and empowering women in traditionally male-dominated roles.

Lydia Micomyoza, a lead technician at Ampersand, emphasises the positive impact of the company, providing her with the opportunity to utilise her electronics degree and secure a stable income for her family.

“As the company grows, we also grow,” Micomyoza says.

Ampersand’s efforts to encourage women to join the fleet of drivers have resulted in over 60 women becoming e-motorcycle drivers, challenging gender norms, and empowering women in the transportation sector.

Numukobwa Dative, a 22-year-old e-moto driver, shares her transformative journey, from being unemployed and financially dependent to owning a sustainable business that supports her family.

Through Ampersand’s credit financing programme, Dative acquired her e-motorcycle and formed a cooperative with other female riders, showcasing the economic and social empowerment facilitated by electric mobility.

Dative, who started driving 18 months ago, bought her electric motorcycle for $2,100, including interest, using an 18-month credit financing plan facilitated by Ampersand and The Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), with funding from UN-Habitat through SOLUTIONSplus.

The impact of the electric mobility revolution goes beyond individual drivers, with global implications for reducing oil demand and transforming transportation.

Investors recognise the potential of e-mobility and are providing crucial support for companies like Ampersand to expand their operations and research.

The Africa Go Green Fund, with support from organisations such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is playing a pivotal role in advancing e-mobility in Africa, fostering a green economy, and transforming transportation across the continent.

Josh Whale envisions the next phase of the electrification of Africa’s commercial motorbike fleet, emphasising the importance of partnerships with established motorcycle manufacturers.

READ ALSO:

The 2024 Africa CEO Forum in Kigali

By focusing on battery technology and software management, Ampersand aims to drive the full electrification of Africa’s transportation sector, accelerating the region’s transition to sustainable and efficient mobility solutions.

The success stories of drivers like Numukobwa Dative highlight the immediate benefits of embracing electric mobility, from economic empowerment to environmental sustainability.

With the support of institutions like IFC and the Africa Go Green Fund, the momentum towards a greener future in African transportation continues to grow, driven by innovation, investment, and a commitment to sustainable development.