Roam and 4G Capital launch an electric motorcycle financing program that saves riders KES 500 daily on operational costs compared to ICE motorcycles.
● In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation’s Jiinue Growth Program (2022-2027), this initiative empowers Kenya’s youth and women entrepreneurs while accelerating the shift to a cleaner, affordable economy.
● With the portable charging feature, riders spend KES 80 for 80 km to charge Roam Air, making this electric motorcyclethe most profitable choice for boda boda operators.
— Roam, Kenya’s pioneering electric mobility company, has partnered with 4G Capital, a Central
Bank of Kenya-licensed digital credit provider, to offer electric motorcycles to boda boda riders with the most affordable financing option on the market. Through 4G Capital’s financing program under the Jiinue Growth Program (2022–2027), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, this program focuses on empowering young people, both male and female, with the majority being in the boda boda industry.
Through this partnership, riders can now own a Roam Air electric motorcycle with a single battery for daily payments as low as KES 460 and save KES 500 in operational costs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles. By lowering financial barriers, the collaboration provides boda boda riders with greater economic opportunities, including the flexibility to charge anywhere with a power outlet—thanks to Roam Air’s portable charging feature. The innovation also allows riders to spend as little as KES 80 to cover an 80 km single battery range, all while advancing clean mobility
The transformative initiative is not only making electric motorcycles accessible but also changing the economics of riding, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. With this shift,
electric motorcycles are proving to be the most financially viable choice for riders looking to maximize their earnings.
The financing model is tailored to the boda boda sector, where riders operate on daily income. With a KES 25,000 deposit for the motorcycle and a single battery (80 km range), riders can pay KES 460 daily for 24 months to fully own their motorcycle and battery. For an extra battery, the rider will be required to top up KES 5,000 on the deposit with an additional daily payment of KES 207 for the same period. Mobile money integration ensures a seamless payment experience, allowing riders to focus on growing their businesses
Stephen Kahuthia, Roam Sales Field Manager said, “Roam is committed to creating a future where mobility is affordable, sustainable, and inclusive. Our partnership with 4G Capital reflects our shared vision of empowering boda boda riders with solutions that drive economic growth and environmental stewardship.”
Valentine Nasila, Head of Partnerships at 4G Capital said, “We are partnering with Roam to support their mission of accelerating the adoption of clean, sustainable transportation solutions. This partnership aligns with our vision of creatingopportunities for growth and economic empowerment. Additionally, collaborating with Roam offers riders a unique opportunity to transition to eco-friendly electric mobility while simultaneously achieving ownership of their electric motorbike. This partnership is about boosting incomes, saving on costs, and contributing to a greener future.”
By integrating Roam’s expertise in electric mobility with 4G Capital’s financial solutions, the partnership ensures that riders can access life-changing opportunities without undue financial strain with comprehensive insurance included.
About Roam
Roam, a pioneer in electric vehicle technology, creates innovative public transport solutions tailored to Africa. As an Earthshot Prize finalist, and one of the world’s top 100 impact startups on the 2024 Impact/100 by Norrsken Foundation, Roam leads in redefining mobility in Africa as showcased by our Roam Air electric motorcycle’s 6,000 km solar-powered expedition from Nairobi to Stellenbosch in S.A, proving its durability and portable charging capability.
About 4G Capital
4G Capital Ltd is the Neo-bank for Africa, a digital credit provider licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya. We provide a combination of working capital Loans blended with enterprise training to help Micro-enterprises grow. Our services arevtailored to meet riders’ needs, including an affordable deposit payment plan and additional support to ensure successful ownership of the Roam Air
About Jiinue Growth Program (JGP)
The Jiinue Growth Program (JGP) supports Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya by providing access to finance and technical support to drive resilience and growth. This five-year partnership focuses on young people and women-led businesses across all 47 counties, helping them scale and prepare for commercial capital.
JGP prioritizes sectors with high youth participation, including retail & trade, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.
The program is led by the Grassroots Business Fund, with support from DT Global for program management. Key partners include KEPSA, KNCCI, GROOTS Kenya, and financing partners like 4G Capital and Powered by People, which provide loans
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