Electric vehicles on Kenyan roads are about to stand out more clearly.
The government has officially introduced green number plates for all electric vehicles, a move aimed at supporting cleaner transport and cutting carbon emissions.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir announced the change on Tuesday, February 3, during the launch of the national e-mobility policy framework in Nairobi. He said the new plates take effect immediately.
“This will be the new kid in town,” Chirchir told delegates. “All electric vehicle number plates will now be green, registered in green.”
The green plates will apply to all categories of electric vehicles. Petrol and diesel vehicles will keep their current reflective plates.
According to the ministry, the colour change is meant to make electric vehicles easy to identify while signalling Kenya’s shift towards cleaner mobility.
“This will be the signature for those of us supporting the reduction of carbon footprints,” Chirchir added.
The Cabinet Secretary urged motorists to consider electric vehicles, pointing to lower running costs and reduced environmental impact. He noted that while uptake remains modest, government policy is focused on creating the right conditions for growth.
Kenya has committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 32 per cent by 2030. Chirchir said transport plays a major role in reaching that target.
“The transport sector contributes roughly a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he said. “By accelerating the move to electric vehicles, Kenya is acting where it matters most.”
The idea of green plates is not entirely new. A similar rollout had been planned in 2024 but was delayed. Tuesday’s announcement brings that plan into force.
Beyond climate goals, the ministry says electric mobility could also boost the economy. Chirchir pointed to opportunities in local assembly, manufacturing and new jobs linked to the sector.
As the policy takes shape, officials say more measures will follow to encourage adoption, even as conventional vehicles remain dominant on Kenyan roads.