Q&A: Why electric scooters dominate Tanzania’s EV market

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Affordability of electric scooters and a surplus of electricity are emerging as the key accelerators of Tanzania’s EV transition, according to Paschal Giki, an electric mobility expert at Enabel. However, the industry faces significant hurdles: most scooters rely on low-cost batteries that lose performance within 12–18 months, creating long-term sustainability concerns. 

• Mr Giki is an e-mobility expert at Enabel, Belgium development agency. He is pushing for sustainable transport in Tanzania through the country’s electric mobility association. Previously he worked at Africa E-Mobility Alliance as a researcher and consultant.

• Despite generating nearly 2,000 MW of surplus power from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Station, Tanzania’s transmission network remains inadequate, limiting reliable distribution to support large-scale EV adoption, says Mr Giki.

More details

What types of electric vehicles dominate Tanzania’s market today?
Mr Giki: The Tanzanian EV market is heavily skewed towards two-wheelers and three-wheelers, especially scooters and tuk-tuks. Many of these are supplied by Chinese companies offering affordable vehicles fitted with cheaper batteries. While this lowers upfront costs, it creates sustainability issues since these batteries often last only a year before needing replacement. Tuk-tuks, locally known as bajaj, are particularly popular because they provide better economies of scale; carrying multiple passengers at prices comparable to motorcycles. Four-wheelers exist but are still niche, mainly used for personal commutes.

How does affordability shape EV adoption in Tanzania?
Mr Giki: Affordability is a double-edged sword in Tanzania’s EV adoption. Chinese suppliers have made EVs cheaper than petrol alternatives by cutting costs. This attracts buyers initially but burdens them with recurring replacement expenses especially for the batteries, undermining long-term economic viability. Despite this, many consumers still buy such models due to low entry costs, creating a fast-growing but fragile market. In contrast, startups working on battery-swapping or higher-quality lithium-ion models aim to provide more sustainable solutions.

Is Tanzania’s electricity supply sufficient to support widespread EV adoption?
Mr Giki: Yes, but with caveats. Tanzania currently reports a surplus of up to 2,000 megawatts, enough to accommodate its existing EV fleet and more. However, the main challenge lies in the distribution infrastructure: transformers, control systems, and grid stability. While generation capacity is strong, frequent local outages show that investments in the transmission and distribution network are urgently needed. Without this, even surplus electricity won’t guarantee reliable EV charging.

How is the electric mobility sector evolving in Tanzania?
Mr Giki: The sector has expanded rapidly in just a short time. A recent mapping identified around 26 active startups involved in importing EVs, assembling batteries, recycling lithium-ion units, and creating fleet management solutions. Just a year earlier, the number was less than half. This growth shows not only strong local entrepreneurial interest but also increasing foreign investment and partnerships. Some startups like Tri have even scaled to other African countries, proving Tanzania’s ecosystem is maturing quickly.

What role is the Tanzanian government playing in supporting e-mobility?
Mr Giki: The government has shown increasing interest in shaping policy. Initially, the Commission of Science and Technology led stakeholder mobilisation for a national e-mobility framework. Now, the Ministry of Transport has taken over, convening development partners and industry players to align initiatives and identify synergies. Such engagement is crucial for fostering collaboration, ensuring regulations evolve, and giving confidence to investors. However, implementation speed and consistency remain challenges that stakeholders frequently highlight.

How significant are industry associations like TAEMA (Tanzania Electric Mobility Association)?
Mr Giki: TAEMA has become a registered, formal body that unites individuals and companies engaged in electric mobility. It provides a platform for members to discuss policy, engage with the government, and advocate for sector-friendly regulations. Associations like TAEMA can also attract donor support, improve capacity for writing proposals, and act as a credible voice in lobbying efforts. This mirrors models in countries such as Kenya, where associations have successfully influenced tax incentives and duty structures.

What is the role of CNG in Tanzania’s mobility transition?
Mr Giki: Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) plays a transitional role in Tanzania’s mobility roadmap. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Dar es Salaam is being rolled out in phases, with phase two and three buses running on CNG. From phase four onwards, electrification is expected. Importantly, CNG depots are being designed to be retrofitted into electric bus depots in the future, reflecting a hybrid approach. Tanzania is leveraging its CNG reserves for immediate cost and energy security benefits while preparing for a longer-term EV transition.

What are the major challenges hindering investment and scale-up of e-mobility in Tanzania?
Mr Giki: The biggest hurdle is the absence of clear regulations and guidelines. For example, Tanzania still lacks defined standards for charging infrastructure, unlike Kenya, making investors hesitant. Without certainty on policy direction over the next 5–10 years, startups and financiers are reluctant to commit large sums. Another challenge is low awareness and political buy-in, while ordinary citizens recognise EVs, influential leaders have not championed the sector strongly. This contrasts with Kenya, where top political figures publicly support EVs, boosting confidence and adoption.

What is the outlook for e-mobility in Tanzania over the next five years?
Mr Giki: The sector is expected to grow significantly, with more startups entering and existing players scaling. Development projects aim to incubate at least 10 new startups, alongside accelerating local battery assembly and vehicle assembly initiatives. Clearer regulations are anticipated, which would stabilise investor confidence and unlock financing. Tanzania’s EV ecosystem could transition from a heavy reliance on imports to a locally integrated value chain, involving battery assembly, charging infrastructure, and broader employment opportunities. If these conditions materialise, the current fleet could easily double or triple, positioning Tanzania as a serious e-mobility hub in East Africa.