Electric bus startup BasiGo has received a major shot in the arm with a Sh766.5 million ($5 million) investment from British International Investment (BII). This funding, provided through BII’s Climate Innovation Facility, will fuel BasiGo’s ambitious plans to scale up the local assembly and deployment of electric buses in Kenya.
BasiGo’s unique Pay-As-You-Drive model will be at the heart of this expansion. This innovative financing approach removes the high upfront cost barrier for bus operators, paving the way for the adoption of 100 new electric buses across the country.
Jonathan Green, BasiGo’s co-founder and CFO, hailed the BII investment as a powerful validation of their mission: “This support signifies our shared commitment to building climate solutions right here in Africa. Electric buses powered by Kenya’s abundant renewable energy hold immense potential to transform public transportation, offering cleaner air, affordability, and a significant reduction in transport emissions.”
Founded just two years ago, BasiGo has already established itself as a pioneer in electric bus adoption. With 19 e-buses currently deployed, they boast the largest fleet of electric buses in sub-Saharan Africa.
BII, recognizing BasiGo’s potential, is making history with this debt facility. Chris Chijiutomi, BII’s Head of Africa, highlights their commitment: “Our Climate Innovation Facility exists to empower impactful technologies that can truly transform lives. BasiGo’s model aligns perfectly with that vision, and their success will pave the way for cleaner, more sustainable transportation across the region.”
This landmark investment not only strengthens BasiGo’s position but also marks a significant milestone for electric mobility in Kenya and beyond. With cleaner air, reduced emissions, and improved public transport options on the horizon, the future of African transportation looks decidedly electric.
