Government orders 3,000 electric vehicles for security officials

President William Ruto has announced that the government has ordered 3,000 electric vehicles for use by security and administration officials as part of efforts to reduce dependence on fuel and shield the country from rising global oil prices.

Speaking during the State of the Nation address on Friday, Ruto said Kenya must embrace electric mobility as a long-term solution to the recurring fuel crisis and rising energy costs affecting households and businesses.

“We must embrace electric vehicles as a first step, and the government has already ordered 3,000 electric vehicles through the Ministry of Interior for use by our security and administration officials,” Ruto said.

The President said the move forms part of broader government efforts to transition the country towards cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives while reducing pressure caused by fluctuating global petroleum prices.

Ruto noted that the adoption of electric vehicles would not only lower operational costs for government agencies but also position Kenya as a regional leader in green energy and sustainable transport.

In a further push to accelerate the transition, the President announced that the first 100,000 electric vehicles would be imported into Kenya.

“I am also making a declaration that the first 100,000 electric vehicles to be imported into Kenya, whether for public service or private use, will be duty-free,” he stated.

The Head of State said the government was also engaging private sector investors to establish electric vehicle manufacturing plants in the country in a bid to boost local production and create jobs.

According to Ruto, the shift towards electric mobility is not solely aimed at addressing the current rise in fuel prices but is part of a broader economic transformation agenda.

“This is not only about overcoming the current crisis but also about building a more self-reliant, resilient and economically secure Kenya for generations ahead,” he said.

The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the impact of rising fuel prices on the cost of living, transport, and business operations across the country.

Ruto maintained that the government remains committed to supporting innovation, clean energy investments, and policies aimed at enhancing economic resilience while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.