Rwandan Electric Motorbike Maker Ampersand Secures New Funding for Expansion
Rwandan electric motorbike manufacturer Ampersand has secured an undisclosed sum of funding in a recent round. This new capital injection will be used to fuel the company’s expansion plans across East Africa, marking a significant milestone in the electrification of the region’s transportation sector. The investment highlights growing interest in sustainable transportation solutions within the African tech landscape.
Investment Details and Future Goals
The funding round saw participation from a diverse group of investors, demonstrating confidence in Ampersand’s vision. Key backers include British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, along with Seedstars Africa Ventures, Gaia Impact, the Rwanda Green Fund, and Raspberry Syndicate. Other notable investors include Ecosystem Integrity Fund, AHL Ventures, Acumen, HEHF, and TotalEnergies. According to Founder and CEO Josh Whale, the support from these investors is crucial in their mission to electrify Africa’s primary mode of transport. Ampersand plans to leverage this funding to significantly grow its battery fleet. By early 2026, they aim to double the fleet size, enabling over 35,000 battery swaps daily and powering thousands of electric motorbikes. This expansion is expected to have a substantial impact on reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner transportation in East Africa.
In conclusion, Ampersand’s successful funding round signifies a positive step towards sustainable transport in Africa. With the backing of several reputable investors, the company is well-positioned to expand its operations and contribute significantly to the electrification of the region’s motorbike industry. This development underscores the potential for innovation and investment in African tech, specifically within the clean energy and transportation sectors.
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