Kericho boda turn to electric bikes as fuel prices bite

SARAH NJAGI-KNA

Boda boda operators in Kericho County are turning to electric motorcycles as rising fuel costs and a growing push for clean energy transform the transport sector.

The transition is gaining momentum among riders seeking to cut operating expenses and boost daily earnings, with many reporting that electric bikes provide a more affordable and efficient alternative to petrol-powered motorcycles.

A spot check conducted by KNA in the outskirts of Kericho town, including Litein town in Bureti Sub- County, revealed a growing presence of electric motorcycle taxis along busy routes.

Within minutes, this writer observed several of the bikes ferrying passengers and goods, signalling a gradual but noticeable shift in the region’s boda boda industry.

Operators who have already adopted the new technology say the benefits are evident in both performance and cost savings.

Bernard Tonui, a rider operating along the Kericho town service route, said he decided to purchase an electric motorcycle after receiving positive feedback from fellow operators who had already made the switch.

Tonui explained that he conducted a one-day test run before committing to the purchase and was impressed by the bike’s power, efficiency and minimal maintenance requirements.

According to him, the experience confirmed that electric motorcycles are a practical solution to the challenges posed by fluctuating fuel prices.

“I decided to buy an electric motorcycle after hearing positive feedback from my fellow riders already using them.

With the rising fuel costs, I think this electric bike is the way forward,”Tonui said.

“The bike can cover up to 100 kilometres on a full charge, and it costs about Sh275 to recharge when the battery is depleted,” he added.

He compared this with his 12-year-old petrol-powered motorcycle, which consumes about Sh400 worth of fuel to cover only half that distance, in addition to requiring frequent servicing and oil changes.

Tonui noted that the savings have significantly reduced his daily expenses, allowing him to retain more of his earnings.

He now plans to use his petrol motorcycle only for light duties around his farm.

Another rider, Alfred Makori, who had owned an electric motorcycle for two weeks, also expressed satisfaction with his investment.

Makori said the global shift towards clean energy influenced his decision, alongside the need to improve his income.

He reported that the electric bike has nearly doubled his daily earnings, citing reduced operating costs as a key factor.

“I recharge my electric bike after covering between 80 and 100 kilometres over two days. Within that period, I have already made enough profit, including the cost of recharging the battery,” he said.

Makori explained that before acquiring the electric motorcycle, he earned about Sh700 per day.

However, he now earns up to Sh1,200, attributing the increase to lower expenses and improved efficiency. Previously, he would travel around 40 kilometres daily using nearly two litres of petrol.

With the electric bike, he now covers up to 90 kilometres over two days at a recharge cost of about Sh240.

“With petrol prices currently at around Sh194 per litre, I have every reason to smile,” he added.