NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 15 – Electric bus manufacturer BasiGo has signed a deal with Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) in Thika to begin local assembly of King Long electric buses, in a move set to accelerate Kenya’s shift to sustainable public transport.
The partnership will see the production of modern, high-quality King Long buses under the BasiGo brand, tailored to meet the needs of the country’s evolving urban transport sector. BasiGo says the decision reflects its commitment to advancing local automotive manufacturing and supporting Kenya’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable mobility solutions.
KVM, which became majority-owned by CFAO Mobility Kenya after a Sh2.3 billion investment, has emerged as a hub for local assembly, hosting more than 13 global brands and employing over 200 staff.
Speaking during the launch, CFAO Mobility Kenya Deputy Managing Director Joshua Anya said the collaboration demonstrates the company’s broader goal of driving economic development and equipping Kenya’s workforce with world-class expertise.
“Our investment at KVM is not just about vehicles—it is about investing in people, providing global technology, and delivering positive impact in the automotive sector,” Anya said.
Over the past year, CFAO Mobility Kenya has undertaken a phased refurbishment of the Thika facility, upgrading it to global standards. This included replacing 35,000 square metres of asbestos roofing, strengthening safety infrastructure, and implementing a comprehensive Environment, Health & Safety framework to safeguard workers and surrounding communities.
The deal marks a major step for BasiGo as it scales up the rollout of electric buses in Nairobi and other cities, cementing Kenya’s position as a leader in Africa’s electric mobility transition.
By Erick Malala
