NewzDODOMA: WITH the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran causing severe disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and driving up global oil prices, countries heavily dependent on imported petroleum products are increasingly exploring ways to reduce their exposure to global energy shocks. Tanzania is among the countries exploring alternative energy solutions, with electric mobility emerging as one of the options that could help reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. The latest developments have also attracted growing interest among Tanzanians in electric vehicles (EVs), particularly two- and three-wheelers, as the country seeks cleaner and more affordable alternatives to conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICEs).
Electric mobility is transforming transportation systems around the world, bringing potential economic, environmental and social benefits. Replacing conventional vehicles with EVs can reduce local air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly when the electricity used to charge them comes from clean and renewable sources. For Tanzania, the shift could also contribute to the country’s climate commitments while helping motorists reduce fuel and maintenance costs.
It could further reduce reliance on imported petroleum products and create opportunities for local businesses involved in vehicle assembly, maintenance, charging infrastructure, battery services and other areas of the emerging e-mobility industry. Growing market Over the past decade, the global electric vehicle market has expanded rapidly, driven by declining technology costs, growing consumer demand and government support. The growth has been particularly visible in the two- and three-wheeler segments, which are highly relevant to Tanzania’s transport system.
According to AfEMA Data Portal 2025, Tanzania had more than 10,000 electric two- and three-wheelers, the highest number of combined EVs in East Africa. The growing market has also attracted at least 10 companies into Tanzania’s e-mobility sector in recent years. These companies are seeing opportunities in the country’s relatively open market and its large fleet of conventional vehicles that could eventually transition to electric technology.
The development of local technical capacity is also gaining momentum. Technical training institutions such as Arusha Technical College (ATC) have st…
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