Kenya and the European Union have signed a financing agreement worth KES 50 billion (EUR 347.6 million) to build the first dedicated electric bus rapid lane in East Africa.
The deal was sealed during a meeting between President William Ruto and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen at the European Union Commission headquarters in Brussels, Belgium.
The project, dubbed Green Mobility-Nairobi core Bus Rapid Transit line 3 (BRT 3), will feature zero-emission electric buses and will introduce intelligent transport system features, affordable fare setting, inclusion of access to the public transport system for youth, women and low-income households, and traveller safety.
President Ruto said the project was in line with Kenya’s commitment to a green transition as envisaged in the country’s climate change mitigation plan.
He also thanked the EU for its support and partnership in various sectors, including trade and investment, health and technology.
The agreement was signed by Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen.
The two officials expressed optimism that the project will enhance mobility, reduce congestion and pollution, and create jobs in Nairobi.