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Norfund to Invest $307 Million in Electric Vehicle Startups in Kenya

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Kenya’s push for green transportation has received a significant boost with a $307 million investment from Norwegian investment fund Norfund.

Norway’s Foreign Affairs Minister made the announcement during a recent visit to Nairobi.

This investment highlights Kenya’s progress in developing its electric mobility sector, marked by a growing number of mobility startups, government incentives for electric vehicles, and the construction of assembly plants.

Part of the investment will go towards BasiGo, a Kenyan electric bus assembly company.

BasiGo has already delivered 24 electric buses to public transport operators in the country.

The company’s CEO, Jit Bhattacharya, recently met with the Norwegian Minister to discuss a potential partnership focused on providing affordable and clean transportation solutions.

“Our trade with Kenya has flourished, growing 30% since 2021. We have around 45 Norwegian companies operating in Kenya, particularly in agriculture technology and renewable energy,” said Minister Espen Barth Eide.

“This investment in BasiGo signifies Oslo’s commitment to supporting regional growth through strategic partnerships. We are optimistic about the future prospects of our collaboration, especially in e-mobility,” he added.

BasiGo’s electric bus fleet includes the 25-seater “K6” and the 54-seater “E9 Kubwa” models.

The company is currently assembling an additional 1,000 electric vehicles expected to serve Kenya and Rwanda in the coming years.

This project is expected to create at least 300 jobs for young Africans, with the potential for further growth with Norfund’s involvement.

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