President William Ruto has announced that the first 100,000 electric vehicles (EVs) imported into Kenya will be exempt from import duty as part of the government’s efforts to accelerate the country’s transition to clean energy transport and strengthen the economy.
The President said the tax waiver will apply to both private and commercial electric vehicles, a move expected to encourage wider adoption of electric mobility across the country.
Speaking on Friday, May 22, President Ruto said Kenya is positioning itself to become a regional hub for electric vehicles despite the current challenges surrounding charging infrastructure.
“As we plan on electric manufacturing companies in Kenya, I would like to inform Kenyans that the first 100,000 vehicles imported into the country, whether for commercial or private use, will be duty free,” the President stated.
Kenya has already recorded significant progress in the electric mobility sector, with approximately 3,000 electric vehicles currently operating on Kenyan roads.
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The Head of State further revealed that the government has ordered 3,000 electric vehicles through the Ministry of Interior and Defence in response to rising fuel prices. He also encouraged investors to establish local assembly plants to support the country’s growing EV industry.
“To build a more self-reliant future generation, we should embrace the use of electric vehicles. So far, as a country, we have requested 3,000 electric vehicles,” President Ruto said.
The government’s latest incentive is expected to attract both local and international investors into Kenya’s emerging electric vehicle market while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
According to information published by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in 2025, the retail prices of electric vehicles in Kenya range from approximately KSh 544,000 for a Toyota C+Walk T to about KSh 3.7 million for a Mitsubishi Minicab-MiEV Van CD.
By Ochola Victor
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