By Agnetta Okwemba & Anne Mtenzi
A new wave of eco-friendly transport is making its mark in Kenya. E-Bikes Kenya, a company led by young entrepreneur and land surveyor Bethel Lugo, has introduced a line of electric bicycles that blend sustainability, convenience, and modern technology. Inspired by his time in Kuwait, where e-bikes are popular, Bethel has set out to transform Kenya's transport, reducing noise pollution, carbon emissions, and daily commuting costs.
In a recent interview with Blue Radio, Bethel described his journey with e-mobility. "While outside the country, my friends motivated me to bring this idea to Kenya," he said, noting that today's market is ripe for innovation in sustainable transport—something that may not have been feasible a decade ago.
In Kenya, where transportation solutions still primarily rely on fuel-powered vehicles, Bethel saw an opportunity to leapfrog into a greener, quieter alternative with E-Bikes.
Bethel Lugo, founder of E-bikes Kenya, during an interview at Blue Radio Kebya. Photo: Blue Radio Ke
As Bethel calls them, E-bikes, or "quiet transport," feature advanced display panels showing speed and battery levels and boast an efficient charging system. Each bike can be charged at home within just three hours, consuming about 0.6 units of electricity—roughly KES 25.
"One time when riding, the battery went low, so I stopped at a cafeteria, had my cup of tea, and charged my bike next to me," Bethel shared with a laugh, demonstrating the convenience and flexibility of these bikes.
These electric bicycles have proven efficient for short commutes. They cost significantly less to maintain than fuel-powered vehicles, with an estimated KES 25 lasting about a week for someone commuting 10 km daily.
Unlike regular motorcycles, e-bikes do not require a number plate or insurance, making them accessible to a broader range of users.
The adoption of electric bikes in Kenya has been challenging. Bethel acknowledged that e-mobility is still a relatively new concept in the country and faces societal resistance. Despite this, he is optimistic that, with time, people will see the numerous benefits of e-bikes, especially as awareness grows around environmental sustainability and the need for more cost-effective transport options.
E-Bikes Kenya offers four models—Millet Green, Bingo, Modern, and Original—each tailored to meet user preferences. With a KES 75,000-120,000 price range, Bethel recognizes that affordability could be challenging for some. To address this, he plans to introduce a "lipa mdogo mdogo" (installment payment) scheme, enabling customers to purchase e-bikes more affordably.
Bethel envisions a future where e-mobility becomes an everyday conversation and practice in Kenya. "In ten years, e-mobility will be a normal conversation in Kenya," he predicted. This bold vision reflects his belief that eco-friendly transport solutions will become an integral part of daily life as technology continues to evolve.
With E-Bikes, Bethel hopes to redefine personal transport, making it greener, quieter, and more accessible for Kenyans.
