The United Nations, through the UNDP, UNCDF, and WRI, has launched a milestone initiative that is set to transform Kenya’s transport and agricultural sectors through climate-smart innovations. Central to this move is a five-year financing programme valued between $40 million and $50 million, designed to deploy 68,000 electric two- and three-wheelers nationwide. This landmark initiative will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and empower small businesses by enabling access to affordable financing through concessional loans, guarantees, and blended finance models delivered via local financial institutions.
The electric mobility programme is targeted across Kilifi, Kiambu, and Kajiado counties and is projected to create 68,000 green jobs, with an intentional allocation of 15% of these opportunities to women. By replacing traditional fuel-powered motorcycles and tuk-tuks with electric alternatives, Kenya will cut up to one million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the next decade. This initiative strategically aligns with the country’s goal under the Enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce emissions by 32% by 2030, leveraging Kenya’s strong renewable energy foundation, with 90% of its electricity already sourced from clean energy.
In addition to clean transportation, the UN has also launched a second transformative project targeting food security and agricultural resilience. This initiative will deploy 1,000 solar-powered cold storage units across the country to reduce post-harvest losses currently estimated at 40%. The cold chain programme will benefit 60,000 smallholder farmers, preserve 5,000 tons of food annually, and prevent 4.8 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, while mobilising an estimated EUR 27 million in private investment using the same blended finance model.
These two flagship programmes represent a powerful synergy between sustainability and economic development. By financing both electric mobility and solar cold chain infrastructure, the initiatives are unlocking new avenues for green jobs, rural income growth, and private-sector participation in climate action. The projects demonstrate how strategic partnerships between global development institutions and local stakeholders can drive inclusive growth and support Kenya’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
Kenya is rapidly emerging as a continental leader in climate innovation and green infrastructure. With these UN-backed initiatives, the country is not only taking decisive steps toward achieving its climate goals but is also positioning itself as a model for sustainable transport and agricultural resilience across Africa. This is a bold step toward a greener, more inclusive future that supports livelihoods, enhances food security, and accelerates economic transformation.
