Kisumu County, nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria, is distinguished by its rich cultural tapestry and the dynamic urban landscape of Kisumu City. As the “Lakeside City,” it is uniquely characterized by its proximity to Africa’s largest freshwater lake, which shapes its identity and growth. Yet, this burgeoning urban center is not immune to the complex challenges that intertwine transportation, environmental sustainability, and public health.
At the heart of these challenges lies the transport sector, a vital channel for economic verve and societal mobility. However, it is also a significant source of environmental concern. The Baseline Emission Inventory of Kisumu, 2021, reveals a critical insight: an overwhelming 84.62% of the County’s total emissions stem from transportation. This surge is driven by an increase in car registrations and the proliferation of motorbikes and “tuk tuks” (three-wheeled vehicles).
The dependency on fossil fuels for transportation casts long shadows over Kisumu’s environmental and public health landscape. The resultant emissions—carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter—taint the air quality, posing dire threats to the ecological balance and the health of its inhabitants. The repercussions are far-reaching, affecting every resident of Kisumu County, from the bustling city to the most secluded villages.
Daily mobility for commuting to work, school, or markets heavily depends on matatus (minibuses), motorcycles and tuk-tuks. The urgent need to address this challenge is evident, as the health and well-being of Kisumu’s residents are at stake.
Recognizing the gravity of this situation, Kisumu County has strategically aligned its efforts with key policy documents, including the Kisumu County Integrated Climate Change Action Plan 2022 – 2027, which outlines specific actions in climate change adaptation.
To facilitate the transition from fossil fuels, the County facilitated the establishment of a charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) in collaboration with E-Safiri. This is an operational charging station located at Dunga Hill Camp. E-safiri is driving the transition into sustainable mobility by developing solar-powered and grid-connected charging stations for two- and three-wheelers. This project aims to increase the adoption of e-mobility for commercial use, thereby transforming lives by reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector.
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