Ghana and 9 other African countries driving EV growth

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity across Africa as governments and private companies invest in clean and sustainable transportation. Rising fuel prices and increasing environmental concerns have prompted many nations to introduce policies that support EV adoption.

By early 2025, more than a dozen African nations will have implemented national EV policies aimed at accelerating the transition to cleaner transportation. These policies typically include tax incentives for EV imports, reduced tariffs on batteries and components, investments in renewable energy infrastructure, and government-led pilot projects integrating EVs into public transport systems.

Some countries are also introducing regulations to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles, while others are offering subsidies to local manufacturers to encourage domestic EV production. Kenya has already launched an electric bus pilot in Nairobi, while Ethiopia and Benin are aggressively transitioning their motorcycle fleet to electric.

Meanwhile, South Africa and Morocco are positioning themselves as EV manufacturing hubs, aiming to meet local demand while exporting to Europe and beyond. These measures reflect a growing commitment to sustainable mobility, with private investors funding charging stations, battery swap networks, and local vehicle assembly. Based on the latest data from the International Energy Agency, these ten African countries are leading the transition toward electric mobility.

Ghana: Leading West Africa’s EV revolution

In a report by Citinews, Ghana is making significant progress in EV adoption, boasting an estimated 17,000 electric vehicles in operation. The government has introduced duty waivers on EV imports and is actively supporting the transition to electric motorcycles and tuk-tuks, which are widely used in urban transport. Charging stations are being deployed along major highways, helping create a more accessible and sustainable EV network.

Morocco: Building a strong EV ecosystem

Morocco is steadily advancing in the EV market, with approximately 10,000 electric vehicles and over 400 charging stations available across the country. The government’s strategic focus on EV exports has attracted investments from leading automakers such as Renault and Stellantis, contributing to local production and a growing EV supply chain.

According to Statista, Morocco’s EV market is projected to reach $108.4 million in revenue in 2025, with an expected annual growth rate of 10.79% from 2025 to 2029. Meanwhile, 6Wresearch reports that Morocco’s EV market has been growing steadily, supported by tax exemptions, subsidies, and investments in charging infrastructure. The government is also working on electrifying public transportation, with plans to introduce electric buses in major cities

South Africa: Pioneering EV policies and infrastructure

South Africa remains a dominant player, with about 6,000 electric vehicles already in use. To encourage further adoption, authorities have removed import duties on EVs, making them more affordable for consumers. Public chargers are being installed at key locations to enhance accessibility, and the country is preparing to roll out multiple new EV models in 2024.

The 2023 Electric Vehicles Market Intelligence Report by GreenCape highlights that South Africa’s EV market is expected to grow significantly, driven by innovative financing models, rising fuel costs, and the expansion of public charging infrastructure. The report projects that the country’s EV market could reach 25,456 vehicles by 2030, with a total market value of R13.9 billion.

Tanzania: Boosting electric two- and three-wheelers

Tanzania has recorded an estimated 5,000 electric vehicles, with a noticeable increase in electric bikes and tuk-tuks. These vehicles provide cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives for short-distance travel. The government is expanding charging infrastructure and working on incentives to make electric mobility a more viable option.

According to the Africa E-Mobility Alliance’s Barriers to E-Mobility in Tanzania Report, Tanzania has the highest number of EVs in East Africa, but the market faces challenges such as high import taxes, unclear registration processes, and limited funding options. Despite these barriers, the country has seen a steady increase in two- and three-wheelers, which have become a common sight on the streets.

Ethiopia: Utilizing renewable energy for EV growth

Ethiopia is leveraging its hydropower resources to support EV adoption, with estimates ranging between 5,000 and 7,000 electric vehicles in use. Authorities have introduced tax exemptions on EV imports and are encouraging public transport electrification through government-backed incentives.

Based on the findings of VUKA Group, Ethiopia’s transition to electric mobility is gaining momentum, with the government initially targeting 148,000 electric cars and 48,555 electric buses by 2030. However, due to rising demand, this target has been revised to 439,000 electric vehicles by 2030.

The road ahead

With growing investment, favorable tax policies, and improved infrastructure, electric vehicles are becoming more common across Africa. As more nations embrace clean energy solutions, the continent is moving toward a greener and more sustainable future.Find the list below by business insider Africa.

(Data by Business Insider Africa)