Revolutionising mobility in rural Kenya

Researchers at Glasgow Caledonian University are spearheading a transformative project to revolutionise transportation in rural Kenya.

The Sun-Run project, backed by funding from Partnership for Green Growth (P4G), aims to provide affordable and sustainable electric mobility solutions to communities that have long been marginalised by a lack of access to reliable transportation and energy infrastructure.

The Sun-Run project seeks to address the pressing issue of inadequate access to the electric grid in many rural African communities, which has profound implications for economic development and gender equality. Particularly affected are women, who often bear the burden of transporting goods to markets over long distances, facing safety risks and economic hardship as a result.

In response to these challenges, the Sun-Run project proposes a comprehensive solution that combines innovative technology with sustainable business models. Central to the initiative is the introduction of electric motorcycles and tuk-tuks, powered by solar energy, as viable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles. By harnessing renewable energy sources, the project aims to reduce operational costs and environmental impact, while providing communities with reliable and environmentally friendly transportation options.

Crucially, the Sun-Run project places a strong emphasis on empowering women in rural Kenya. Recognising that women often have limited access to transportation solutions and economic opportunities, the project offers a Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGo) model, allowing women to lease electric vehicles and pay for fully charged batteries as needed. This innovative approach not only addresses gender disparities in transportation but also promotes economic empowerment and entrepreneurship among women in rural communities.

The impact of the Sun-Run project is already being felt on the ground, with the installation of the first pilot station in Dunga Beach, Kisumu County. This initial step marks the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more sustainable and inclusive transportation system in Kenya. With ongoing support from P4G and other international partners, the project aims to expand its reach, increasing the number of electric vehicles and charging stations to serve more communities across the country.

Key partners in the Sun-Run project include E-Safiri and Kiri-EV, Kenyan SMEs specialising in electric mobility solutions, as well as Glasgow Caledonian University, providing technical expertise, and Sustainable Transport Africa, an NGO dedicated to promoting sustainable transportation solutions. The academic team from Glasgow Caledonian consists of Dr Roberto Ramirez-Iniguez, Professor Mohamed Emad Farrag and Dr Funmilayo Offiong.

Principal Investigator Dr Roberto Ramirez-Iniguez said: “The Sun-Run project represents a significant milestone in the global effort to address climate change and promote sustainable development. By harnessing the power of renewable energy and innovative business models, the project not only offers practical solutions to transportation challenges but also fosters economic empowerment and gender equality in rural communities. As the project continues to gain momentum, it serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter and more sustainable future for all.”