Thabo Nkosi 
In a groundbreaking step towards sustainable mobility, Ethiopia has taken the bold initiative to ban the import of gasoline and diesel vehicles, becoming the first country in the world to implement such a policy. The measure, which became effective in early 2024, is part of the government’s strategy to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons, improve the nation’s trade balance, and establish Ethiopia as a leader in ecological transportation on the African continent.
A Capital Transformed by Electric Vehicles
The streets of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, are visibly changing as electric vehicles grow in popularity. Urban electric buses are now part of the public transportation system, while private electric cars are becoming a common sight. For many residents, the switch to electric vehicles represents significant economic savings and greater convenience.
Kemeriya Mehammed Abduraheman, a consultant and new electric car owner, shared her experience: "The economic and time savings of not having to wait in long lines to refuel" have been a major benefit. She noted that her monthly transportation costs dropped from $27 to just $4 after purchasing a BYD electric car for $34,000.
Charging Infrastructure Faces Growing Demand
Despite the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, Ethiopia still faces challenges in meeting its growing infrastructure needs. Currently, only 100 charging stations are available in Addis Ababa, and more than 2,300 will be required nationwide to sustain the ongoing transition.
Minister Bareo Hassen Bareo, who oversees green mobility efforts, acknowledged the gap, stating that Ethiopia must "increase its charging infrastructure by more than twentyfold." Although many EV users have installed home chargers, issues like power outages and a lack of specialized technicians and spare parts have hindered the expansion of electric vehicle use beyond the capital.
Hydropower Drives the Transition
The country’s ambitious goals are supported by a reliable and renewable energy source: the recently inaugurated megadam on the Nile River. Now Africa’s largest hydroelectric plant, the project is expected to double Ethiopia’s electricity production capacity. This significant boost is critical for reducing blackouts and bolstering the country’s ability to support its growing fleet of electric vehicles, which is projected to exceed 500,000 units by 2035.
Economic Barriers and Local Production Initiatives
While Ethiopia’s electric mobility policy is a promising step toward sustainability, affordability remains a key hurdle. With nearly 38% of the population living on less than $3 a day, the high cost of electric vehicles limits access for many. In response, the government is working to attract foreign manufacturers and encourage local production as part of efforts to reduce costs and make electric vehicles more accessible.
Samson Berhane, an economic analyst, emphasized that Ethiopia’s progress is fueled by "the growth of the middle class" and "a sustained demand for new vehicles."
A Model for Sustainable Mobility in Africa
Ethiopia’s transition to electric mobility offers a blueprint for other African nations, where electric vehicles currently hold only 1% of the market share. Even with limited infrastructure and significant economic challenges, Ethiopia is demonstrating that it is possible to create a fair and sustainable transportation system.
The country’s experience provides valuable lessons for nations across the continent, underscoring the potential for an energy transition that aligns with environmental and economic goals. By leading the way, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a pioneer in the drive toward sustainable mobility.
