African electric bicycles start-up booklet

Summary

The booklet examines the rapid growth of electric bicycles in Africa as a realistic and scalable mobility solution, driven by rising fuel costs, the expansion of renewable energy, and government e-mobility policies. It draws on insights from 18 companies designing, manufacturing, assembling, or deploying electric bicycles in diverse African contexts—from dense megacities like Nairobi and Cairo, to rural communities in Uganda and Namibia. The document explains why electric bicycles are gaining traction: they offer lower operating costs than motorcycles, enable longer and faster trips than conventional bicycles, and respond to unique African topographic, climatic, and economic conditions. The booklet shows how companies adapt bicycle design (strong frames, puncture-resistant tires, large carriers, dual batteries, modular cargo space) to local terrain, infrastructure gaps, and use cases such as last-mile delivery, water transport, agricultural logistics, healthcare access, bike-sharing, and commuter mobility. A significant portion of the booklet is dedicated to company profiles, showcasing business models (PAYGo, B2B logistics, leasing, bike-sharing, micro-factories), achievements, and visions for scaling. The booklet also highlights policy gaps—e-bicycles are often excluded from incentives granted to electric motorcycles—and calls for fiscal reforms, safe cycling infrastructure, integration with public transport, and regional coordination (e.g., within the EAC). The booklet ultimately positions electric bicycles as an essential pillar for Africa's low-carbon mobility transition and a key enabler of local job creation, gender inclusion, and sustainable logistics.