Indian electric commercial vehicle manufacturer EKA Mobility has officially launched Zanzibar’s first fleet of electric buses, marking a significant milestone in the company’s international expansion and supporting the island’s transition toward cleaner public transportation.
The inaugural fleet of 15 electric buses was flagged off by Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar, ahead of commercial operations scheduled to begin on August 1. The deployment is the first phase of a larger electric mobility initiative that is expected to expand significantly over the coming months.
Initial Deployment Marks Beginning of Larger EV Programme
The first batch of buses forms part of a broader public transport electrification project designed to modernize Zanzibar’s urban transit network.
According to EKA Mobility, 35 electric buses have already been ordered, and the fleet is expected to grow to 150 buses by the end of 2026.
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Add INDYASTORY on GoogleThe project aims to reduce emissions from public transport while improving the reliability and sustainability of bus services across the island.
Supporting Zero-Emission Public Transport
Electric buses are increasingly being adopted by cities worldwide as governments work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve urban air quality.
Compared with conventional diesel buses, electric buses offer several advantages:
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower operating and maintenance costs
- Reduced noise pollution
- Improved passenger comfort
- Better long-term environmental performance
The Zanzibar deployment aligns with broader efforts to build cleaner and more sustainable transportation systems while supporting the country’s environmental objectives.
Local Workforce Training Central to the Project
In addition to supplying vehicles, EKA Mobility is investing in local skill development to ensure the long-term success of the programme.
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Add INDYASTORY on GoogleThe company is working with Global Rapid Transport (GRT) to train local personnel in:
- Electric bus operations
- Preventive maintenance
- Software and fleet management systems
- Safety procedures
- Technical support
The Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF) is also collaborating with GRT to strengthen workforce readiness and support operational capacity as the electric fleet expands.
Made-in-India Technology Heads to Global Markets
The buses deployed in Zanzibar are 12-metre electric buses built on EKA Mobility’s dedicated electric vehicle platform for urban public transport.
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Add INDYASTORY on GoogleThe project highlights the growing global acceptance of electric commercial vehicles developed and manufactured in India.
EKA Mobility says Africa represents a strategic market within its international growth plans, with increasing demand for sustainable mobility solutions across the continent.
Africa Remains a Key Export Market
Commenting on the launch, Vijay Yelne, President – Export Marketing & SCM at EKA Mobility, said the deployment demonstrates that Indian-designed electric mobility solutions can meet the evolving transportation needs of international markets.
He added that Africa will continue to play an important role in the company’s long-term global expansion strategy as governments across the region invest in cleaner public transport infrastructure.
Launch Attended by Government and Industry Leaders
The flag-off ceremony brought together senior representatives from government, industry, and diplomatic missions, including:
- Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar
- Senior officials from the Government of Zanzibar
- Bishwajit Dey, High Commissioner of India to Tanzania
- Representatives from the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF)
- Global Rapid Transport (GRT)
- EKA Mobility executives
The event highlighted growing cooperation between India and African nations in advancing sustainable transportation and clean mobility technologies.
Outlook
The Zanzibar project represents an important step in EKA Mobility’s international growth strategy as it expands its presence in global electric commercial vehicle markets.
With additional buses planned for deployment and comprehensive local training programmes underway, the initiative is expected to strengthen Zanzibar’s public transport network while showcasing India’s capabilities in electric vehicle manufacturing and sustainable mobility solutions.
