A new Bill that could fundamentally reshape government transport policy is set to be introduced in Parliament soon.
Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has revealed plans to introduce a Draft Bill that would mandate the use of solar-powered electric mobility for all government and public service vehicles, in a bold proposal aimed at reducing Kenya’s dependence on petroleum.
Speaking on the proposal, Kaluma said the country must urgently rethink its transport and energy systems in the face of rising fuel costs and global shifts toward cleaner energy.
“When we go back to Parliament after the current recess, I will propose a law to mandate only solar-powered electric motor vehicles and e-mobility for all government and public service vehicles,” Kaluma said.
He pointed to Ethiopia as an example of a neighbouring country already moving faster in adopting electric mobility systems, arguing that Kenya risks being left behind if it does not accelerate similar reforms.
“Ethiopia is already here. We must adapt and move away from petroleum, except where this is unavoidable,” he added.
Kaluma’s proposal comes at a time when fuel prices continue to be a major political and economic issue in Kenya, with households and businesses feeling the pressure of high transport and production costs. His remarks are likely to reignite debate on whether Kenya should aggressively transition to electric mobility or continue relying on petroleum imports while expanding renewable energy integration.
The legislator also turned his attention to Nairobi’s public transport system, criticising what he described as overreliance on private operators who dominate the matatu sector.
He called for a structured, rail-based commuter system to ease congestion and reduce what he termed “commercial pressure” exerted by private transport operators.
“We also need a well-functioning commuter train and public transport system for Nairobi to end the constant blackmail by private individuals operating as matatu owners, who have allowed to monopolise public transport in Kenya,” Kaluma said.
His comments add to ongoing discussions about urban mobility in Nairobi, where traffic congestion, rising fuel costs, and inconsistent public transport services remain persistent challenges for commuters.
Transport experts have previously argued that expanding commuter rail services and integrating bus rapid transit systems could significantly reduce congestion and lower transport costs in the city.
However, implementation has been slow, with funding, coordination, and infrastructure gaps cited as major obstacles.
Kaluma’s proposal is expected to face scrutiny in Parliament, particularly on issues of cost, feasibility, and the readiness of Kenya’s electric mobility infrastructure.
Questions are also likely to arise regarding energy supply, battery technology, and the country’s capacity to support a full transition of government fleets to electric systems.
Despite the anticipated debate, Kaluma maintained that the direction of global transport policy leaves Kenya with limited options.
“The future is electric, and we must not be left behind,” he said.
The proposed bill is expected to be tabled when Parliament resumes from recess, setting the stage for fresh debate on energy transition, transport reform, and the future of mobility in Kenya.
