As the historic Grand Trans-Africa Electric Vehicle Expedition nears home and enters its final stretch, its success is being defined not only by the vast distances covered, but also by the deep-rooted partnerships, policy alignments, and continental momentum it has ignited along the way. This momentum came into sharp focus in Lusaka, Zambia, where the expedition reached a critical inflection point. Powered by strategic technology partner MTN, the initiative brought together government, industry, and innovation leaders to solidify a shared vision for Africa’s electric mobility agenda.
On December 20 at East Park Mall, the expedition team led by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) Head of Legal and Team Leader, Elias Bwambale convened with the Zambia Electric Mobility and Innovation Alliance (ZEMIA). This was not merely a meeting about transport solutions; it was a high-level positioning of e-mobility as a catalyst for industrialization and regional collaboration. The significance of the dialogue was underscored by the presence of Mr. Patrick K. Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet and Head of the Public Service for the Republic of Zambia, who emphasized the national importance of these discussions.
Central to the conversation was the indispensable role of technology and connectivity in accelerating EV adoption. As the expedition’s digital solutions partner, MTN continues to enable the smart, connected capabilities of the Kayoola electric buses, demonstrating how reliable digital infrastructure underpins the future of intelligent transport systems across the continent. Highlighting this synergy, Chilufya Lusale, Enterprise General Manager at MTN Zambia, noted:
“At MTN, we believe that connectivity is the heartbeat of modern industry. Our partnership with Kiira Motors is a testament to how digital infrastructure can transform a vehicle into a smart, data-driven solution for modern transit. We are providing the nervous system for Africa’s green transport revolution, ensuring that the future of mobility is connected, intelligent, and entirely sustainable.”
The e-mobility discussions further focused on three strategic priorities: the localization of the Kayoola EV bus supply chain within Zambia; bridging the gap between academic research and market-ready innovation; and aligning African stakeholders around a unified ambition to electrify the continent. In a dedicated policy discussion with Mr. Kangwa regarding Zambia’s commitment to green growth, he outlined a strategic, phased approach for the nation—beginning with importation and skills transfer, advancing through innovation, and culminating in full local production with value addition, including ambitious plans to manufacture batteries and EV components.
Commending Uganda’s leadership in electric bus development, Mr. Kangwa highlighted the immense opportunity for bilateral collaboration, noting that the partnership reflects a shared African vision for industrial independence.
The engagements included a city ride for delegates aboard the Kayoola EV bus around Lusaka, touring the Cabinet Office building as well as the home of Zambia’s first president, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. The team was also joined by renowned Zambian artist Pompi, who praised MTN and KMC’s vision for a sustainable and connected African future. He highlighted the partnership as a powerful example of how technology and local innovation can unite to transform the continent’s transport landscape.
This spirit of collaboration was further cemented as MTN Zambia reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the sector. Lusale expressed gratitude to the Ugandan Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation – Office of the President (STI-OP) and KMC for the partnership. In a symbolic gesture of this growing bond, Lusale received a scale model of the Kayoola EV Bus, representing the digital and connectivity support MTN will provide for buses earmarked for the Zambian market.
Reflecting on the long-term impact of these strategic alignments, Elias Bwambale remarked:
“This expedition is more than a journey across borders; it is a blueprint for African self-reliance. By integrating the Kayoola EV into Zambia’s industrial framework, we are not just deploying buses—we are building a unified continental supply chain where African innovation drives African prosperity. Together, these priorities reflect a deliberate shift from adoption toward African ownership of electric mobility value chains.”
Having departed Mpika today, December 22, 2025, the team will cross into Tanzania, marking yet another milestone in a journey expected to exceed 13,000 electric kilometers. As the expedition moves closer to its conclusion, it is increasingly clear that this mission is about more than moving vehicles across borders. It represents the convergence of African governments, KMC, and MTN in a bold public–private partnership, delivering a cleaner, smarter, and self-determined mobility future for all of Africa.
