Affordable EV Financing Empowers Kenya’s Youth and Women Entrepreneurs

 Roam, Kenya’s pioneering electric mobility company, has partnered with 4G Capital, a Central Bank of Kenya-licensed digital credit provider, to offer electric motorcycles to boda boda riders with the most affordable financing option on the market.

Through 4G Capital’s financing program under the Jiinue Growth Program (2022–2027), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, this program focuses on empowering young people, both male and female, with the majority being in the boda boda industry.

Through this partnership, riders can now own a Roam Air electric motorcycle with a single battery for daily payments as low as KES 460 and save KES 500 in operational costs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles.

By lowering financial barriers, the collaboration provides boda boda riders with greater economic opportunities, including the flexibility to charge anywhere with a power outlet—thanks to Roam Air’s portable charging feature.

The innovation also allows riders to spend as little as KES 80 to cover an 80 km single battery range, all while advancing clean mobility.

The transformative initiative is not only making electric motorcycles accessible but also changing the economics of riding, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.

With this shift, electric motorcycles are proving to be the most financially viable choice for riders looking to maximize their earnings.

The financing model is tailored to the boda boda sector, where riders operate on daily income. With a KES 25,000 deposit for the motorcycle and a single battery (80 km range), riders can pay KES 460 daily for 24 months to fully own their motorcycle and battery.

For an extra battery, the rider will be required to top up KES 5,000 on the deposit with an additional daily payment of KES 207 for the same period.

Mobile money integration ensures a seamless payment experience, allowing riders to focus on growing their businesses.

 “Roam is committed to creating a future where mobility is affordable, sustainable, and inclusive. Our partnership with 4G Capital reflects our shared vision of empowering boda boda riders with solutions that drive economic growth and environmental stewardship,” Stephen Kahuthia, Roam Sales Field Manager said.

Valentine Nasila, Head of Partnerships at 4G Capital said that the partnership with Roam is to support the mission of accelerating the adoption of clean, sustainable transportation solutions.

“This partnership aligns with our vision of creating opportunities for growth and economic empowerment. Additionally, collaborating with Roam offers riders a unique opportunity to transition to eco-friendly electric mobility while simultaneously achieving ownership of their electric motorbike. This partnership is about boosting incomes, saving on costs, and contributing to a greener future.”

By integrating Roam’s expertise in electric mobility with 4G Capital’s financial solutions, the partnership ensures that riders can access life-changing opportunities without undue financial strain with comprehensive insurance included.