Though Kenya contributes only about 0.1 percent toward global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it is one of the countries bearing the brunt of climate change, right from devastating floods to food insecurity.
It is therefore crucial that we collectively work toward building climate resilience through innovative adaptation as well as mitigation solutions.
In demonstrating its commitment towards building a more sustainable future, Kenya made the ambitious pledge to reduce carbon emissions by one third by 2030 while submitting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations.
The NDCs are national climate action plans submitted by countries to the United Nations under the Paris Agreement to address climate change. To achieve its target, the government needs to have ‘all hands-on deck’ and when it comes to emissions, the logistics sector is an indispensable piece of the puzzle.
With the growth and expansion of supply chains, the sector has emerged as a significant contributor to the overall global carbon footprint, accounting for nearly 25 percent of global CO2 emissions.
Traditionally, this high score has been attributed to the fact that transportation primarily involves fuel combustion and, in our case, has been affected by challenges like inefficient infrastructure and energy-intensive operations. Without significant changes, emissions from the logistics and freight transport industries are projected to rise.
Further, Kenya is currently seeing significant growth and development in its logistics sector, driven by rising trade, increased e-commerce, and investments in infrastructure.
This is evident through the improved infrastructure set up in the last couple of decades, increased air cargo demand, growth in e-mobility, and the increasing use of digital platforms for transport services.
It is also bolstered by the anticipated expansion of the standard gauge railway and the government’s efforts to improve port efficiency, address infrastructure challenges, and support the digital transformation of the logistics sector.
The growth is greatly welcomed but it need not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.
Kenya can embrace sustainable solutions, including transitioning to electric vehicles, improving public transportation, adopting alternative fuels, and optimising road infrastructure.
We, therefore, have an opportunity to leapfrog and get ahead of the game by embracing these innovative and sustainable solutions.
One key emerging trend is the growth of the Electric Vehicle (EV) sector. In Kenya, the number of registered electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly increased, with motorcycles leading the way, followed by cars, tuk-tuks, and buses.
As of December 2023, the total number of EVs registered was 3,753 and by May 2025, the number had nearly doubled to 5,294.
In as much as the growth of the EV market is nascent in our country, an area that presents immense potential and the next big thing in electric mobility is the logistics sector.
We have already seen a surge in the number of electric commuter buses on our roads, and the trucking sector is the next frontier.
In Kenya, a steady rise in electric trucks has the potential of transforming the logistics sector, offering a greener, less costly and more efficient way to transport goods.
If we conservatively estimate a modest 30 percent reduction in carbon emissions per electric truck that is introduced on our roads, the total reduction for all electric trucks could be significant.
This highlights the transformative potential of the logistics sector in driving sustainability and mitigating climate change and fostering a more workable future.
Additionally, companies operating in the logistics sector also have a significant role to play in the adoption of ecofriendly practices. This can be done through leveraging technology to significantly reduce their carbon footprint by optimising transportation, improving warehouse efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.
The industry should normalise adopting systems for efficient route planning and optimisation. This includes utilising advanced technologies like GPS and route optimisation software to plan and optimise transportation routes.
This can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
They can also consolidate shipments and employ efficient loading and unloading processes to further contribute to resource efficiency.
Owing to their central position in the supply chain, transport companies can also collaborate with stakeholders like suppliers to adopt eco-friendly practices and set sustainability criteria and this can help reduce emissions throughout the entire supply chain.
The ripple effect of adopting these ecofriendly practices is not only a greener Kenya but also cost and time savings for industry players.
Achieving sustainable transport in Kenya and East Africa requires a collaborative approach involving governments, private sector players, and local communities.
Policy frameworks supporting alternative fuel adoption, investments in infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns are essential components of this transition.
By working together, we can create a transport system that not only meets the mobility needs of today but also preserves the environment for future generations.
The writer is CEO & Managing Director | Siginon Group. Email: [email protected]
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