Proparco Fuels BasiGo’s Expansion of Electric Bus Solutions in Africa
Proparco, the development finance institution, has announced its financial backing of BasiGo, an e-mobility startup based in Nairobi, marking a significant step towards scaling sustainable public transport across Africa. This investment aims to boost BasiGo’s electric bus deployment, contributing to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions in rapidly expanding urban centers throughout Kenya, Rwanda and beyond. The initiative underscores the growing interest in e-mobility as a key component of sustainable urban development across the continent.
BasiGo’s Impact on African Public Transport
BasiGo is currently providing electric bus solutions to public transport operators in Kenya and Rwanda, with a fleet of 100 electric buses already operational. The startup locally assembles the electric buses, and also manages the development and operation of charging infrastructure, partnering with bus operators to offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel-powered buses for mass transit in African cities. This comprehensive approach is key to facilitating the transition to electric mobility. Jean Guyonnet-Dupérat, Regional Director for East Africa at Proparco, emphasized the significance of their support, stating that they are “helping to unlock a new generation of clean, reliable mass public transport solutions for tens of thousands of passengers in Kenya and Rwanda, and to scale this solution in other African cities.”
In conclusion, Proparco’s investment in BasiGo highlights the increasing momentum towards sustainable public transport solutions in Africa. By supporting the expansion of electric bus fleets, this initiative contributes to environmental sustainability and improves the quality of life for urban populations across the continent. It also demonstrates the potential of African tech startups to develop innovative solutions for local challenges.
Keywords
Related Keywords: Proparco investment, BasiGo, African public transport, electric buses Africa, sustainable transport, mass transit Africa, emobility Africa, techmoran, Proparco funding, clean transport