E-Mobility Association Forms to Accelerate Capital’s EV Shift

Aiming to accelerate the capital’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs), a new e-mobility association has been formed in Addis Ababa by a collective of industry professionals. Officially registered under the Ethiopian Civil Society Agency (ECSA), the Addis Ababa E-mobility Association aims to tackle key challenges hindering EV adoption, including a lack of charging infrastructure, public awareness, supportive regulations, and financial incentives.

“By working collaboratively, we hope to create a conducive environment for the growth of e-mobility,” said Hilina Legesse, Deputy General Manager of Dodai and President of the Addis Ababa E-Mobility Association.

One of the biggest barriers to mass e-mobility adoption in Ethiopia is the difficulty and constraints of obtaining number plates for electric motorbikes from the transport bureau. Additionally, complexities in importing and selling batteries and spare parts, as well as the lack of clarity and standards for charging and battery swapping stations, hinder the availability and maintenance of electric vehicles, according to the Association.

Currently, the group has 12 members, including Addis Alemayehou of Kazana Group, Tsegamlak Solomon, a lawyer, former officials, and individuals from communication and tech companies.

Looking ahead, the Association has set ambitious milestones for the next three years, including expanding its membership base, establishing a network of charging and battery-swapping stations, and collaborating with government bodies to create training centers focused on e-mobility technologies.

“A key initiative will be to streamline the process for obtaining number plates for electric motorbikes, aiming for a hassle-free experience within 24 hours,” Hilina told Shega.

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The association’s formation comes at a critical juncture as Ethiopia aims to import nearly half a million electric vehicles over the next decade, a move that could significantly reduce the country’s reliance on fuel imports and mitigate urban pollution.

The Ethiopian government has already taken steps to encourage this transition by allowing duty-free imports of EV parts and reducing taxes on partially assembled electric vehicles, creating a more favorable landscape for the e-mobility sector.