Sierra Leone electrifies three-wheelers to counter rising fuel prices, air pollution and climate change
Sierra Leone Environmental Protection Agency (EPA-SL) officially launched the country’s The first electric action strategyand introduced what is known as the electric tricycle e-kekes. Working is part of a larger initiative.Support for Sierra Leone steering motors“With the support of the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP), in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the country and improve urban mobility and air quality.
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions,”Support for Sierra Leone steering motors“The regulatory framework will be developed, pilot electric tricycles and battery exchange stations, and a sustainable business model will be designed. The core focus of the project is to expand and replicate successful plans while implementing fiscal policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Sierra Leone.
The initiative was adopted by the EU SolutionsPlus Projectstarted in 2024. It is made by the National Government with UNEP, Global Environmental Facilities (GEF) and Local stakeholders.
The initiative marks an important step forward in Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustainable transport. It will initially deploy 15 fleets e-kekes In Capital Freetown, the concept was tested against 30% of female drivers, focusing on gender inclusion.
Turn e-kekes Commitment has significant environmental benefits. Traditional three-wheeled motorcycles consume 4 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers, making a significant contribution to air pollution – According to the United Nationsis associated with 394,000 premature deaths in Africa each year. Transition to electric vehicles will help reduce local air pollutants, mitigate health risks associated with pollution in urban areas, and improve road safety by promoting quality e-kekes More than gasoline-powered tricycles.
also, e-kekes Basic studies show that although their upfront investment is 1.2 to 1.5 times higher than traditional vehicles, they offer significant cost advantages. Vehicles reduce operating costs and an effective battery swap system bring a compelling economic case to adoption. and, E-TO Drivers can expect higher profits while reducing daily rents of $1.50, compared to the current rent of $5 bundle.
The program is with the wider EPA and Ministry of TransportLeadership shifts to electric two and tricycles, accounting for 10% of the Sierra Leone fleet. These efforts aim to increase economic resilience by reducing fossil fuel dependence and support The United States’ 2050 Carbon Neutral Ambition. The project also aims to promote entrepreneurship in the local electric vehicle industry and create jobs for young people in the electric vehicle industry.
“Support Sierra Leone’s transfer to electric mobility” will not be operated until 2026. It includes innovative features such as deployed solar cell sales stations to ensure operational efficiency. A strong monitoring framework will track vehicle performance, environmental impacts and socio-economic benefits, including the impact of the program on women’s participation in the transport sector.
Learn more about UNEP’s global electric mobility program here.
Distributed by Apo Group on behalf of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP).