In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable urban transportation, the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NaMATA) has unveiled plans to deploy 120 electric buses as part of the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by NaMATA Director General Francis Gitau, aims to revolutionize public transit in the Kenyan capital, setting a precedent for eco-friendly mobility solutions across the region.
Addressing stakeholders at the e-Mobility Conference held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Engineer Gitau outlined the government’s vision for a modernized transport network centered around electric buses. Key to this vision is the construction of 19 strategically located stations, strategically positioned along the BRT Line 3, stretching from Dandora to the Central Business District (CBD) and onward to Hospitals near the Kenyatta Hospital area.
The proposed stations will be strategically positioned along major roads and residential areas, ensuring convenient access for commuters. From Dandora to Councillor Opunda, Muigai Kenyatta Road to Mutarakwa Road, and Outer Ring Road to Huruma, these stations will serve as vital hubs in the electrified transit network. Additionally, connecting stations at Mathare Road, Moi Airbase, Melawa Road, Eastleigh, Muratina Road, Chai Road, and Mogora Road will further enhance accessibility and connectivity for passengers.
Prominent landmarks such as Kariokor, Racecourse Road – Temple, Haile Selassie, Library, and Hospitals will also host these futuristic stations, integrating sustainable transportation seamlessly into the fabric of the city. With an estimated stretch of 12.4 kilometers, the BRT Line 3 is poised to accommodate approximately 40,000 passengers per hour, significantly easing congestion and reducing carbon emissions in Nairobi’s bustling urban landscape.
The scale of the project reflects a substantial investment commitment, with an estimated cost of Ksh52 billion (approximately Euros 365 million). A significant portion of this budget, Ksh10 billion, will be allocated towards the acquisition of electric buses, underscoring the government’s dedication to embracing clean energy solutions. Moreover, the project will be executed in collaboration with esteemed partners such as the European Union (EU), harnessing international expertise and resources to ensure its success.
Crucially, Engineer Gitau emphasized that the design for the BRT Line 3 had already been finalized, signaling the imminent commencement of implementation. This milestone represents a pivotal moment in Nairobi’s transportation landscape, heralding a new era of sustainable mobility powered by cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking policies.
As the government embarks on this transformative journey towards electrifying Nairobi’s transport infrastructure, the stage is set for a greener, more efficient future, where public transit aligns harmoniously with environmental stewardship and economic prosperity. Through collective collaboration and bold innovation, Kenya is poised to lead the charge towards sustainable urban development, setting an inspiring example for cities around the world to follow.
