By Dorothy Musyoka
The 11th Pan African Regional Conference, focusing on mobility and air quality, commenced today in Nairobi, Kenya.
This landmark event has brought together representatives from several African nations, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Mozambique, Rwanda, Nigeria, and Ghana.
The conference, themed ‘Leveraging Electric Mobility and Sustainable Transport for Clean Air and Low Carbon Pathways in Africa,’ addresses critical issues around sustainable development, urbanization, and air quality.
According to National Environment Management Authority (NEMA),the highlight of the first day of the conference was the launch of the report titled “E-volution: Why Electric Mobility is an Opportunity in Africa,” authored by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India.
The report outlines the potential benefits of electric mobility for African countries, emphasizing opportunities to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and enhance public health.
Experts and policymakers explored the role of mass transit systems, the right to mobility, and the affordability of electric vehicles as essential strategies for creating cleaner, healthier urban environments.
These discussions aim to advance Africa’s transition to more sustainable transport systems while addressing air pollution concerns and contributing to a low-carbon future.
The conference discussions are closely aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a sustainable and prosperous Africa.
The event seeks to position the continent as a leader in adopting electric mobility solutions, thereby reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean air policies across urban centers.
The conference has been jointly convened by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India, and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya. Both organizations are working to promote cleaner air and sustainable transport systems in Africa.
The discussions at this conference are expected to shape the future of mobility and environmental policies across the continent, offering a path forward toward healthier cities, sustainable transportation, and low-carbon development.