Bajaj riders find fortune in clean energy use

TANGA: THE search for clean energy solutions is taking an exciting new turn in Tanga, where the city’s iconic Bajaj transport system is on the brink of a green revolution.

Mr Hamis Halfan, a Bajaj rider navigating the bustling streets of Tanga City, is on the frontline of this transformation.

He’s been test-driving a cuttingedge innovation: the “E-Boda,” an electric Bajaj that promises to leave fossil fuel woes in the past.

“I used to spend up to 15,000/- a day on fuel for my regular Bajaj. With the E-Bajaj, I only need 3,000/- to charge the battery, and it lasts 80 to 100 kilometres,” Mr Hamis explained enthusiastically.

He shared his experience over the weekend during a two-day training session for Bajaj drivers and garage technicians, aimed at introducing them to the workings and assembly of the E-Bajaj.

The E-Bajaj is the brainchild of the Tanzania Open Innovation Organisation (TOIO) and its tech division, Robotec, based at Tanga Technical Secondary School.

With support from the Swiss-based Botnar Foundation through the Tanga Yetu Initiative, TOIO is committed to developing community-led projects that provide valuable skills and opportunities, particularly for the youth.

According to TOIO official Abrulwahab Issa, the initial design was developed locally before being sent to China for further refinement and manufacturing.

The initiative is driven by a dual desire to protect the environment and to create more cost-effective transport solutions for low-income drivers.

“The rising cost of fuel has made commuting expensive, impacting drivers’ incomes. Our innovations aim to provide savings that can make their businesses more profitable,” Mr Issa stated.

TOIO’s vision extends beyond just electric Bajajs. The organisation plans to introduce a range of electric vehicles, from two-wheelers to four-wheelers, catering to passenger transport, logistics and delivery services.

One of the standout features of the new model is a battery-swapping station, designed to save time by allowing quick and efficient battery changes, thus offering another avenue for youth employment.

“The training sessions are crucial for Bobaboda operators to understand the electric system and assembly process of these vehicles. Our goal is to reduce their fuel expenses and increase their profitability,” Issa adds.

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TOIO is also seeking to collaborate with the CRDB Bank Asset Investment programme and the Local Government Authority’s soon-to-reopen ten per cent loan window to facilitate the deployment of these electric vehicles.

Philotheusy Mbogoro, a representative of the Botnar Foundation, emphasised their commitment to funding young innovators whose projects can generate income and propel their communities forward.

“Through the Tanga Yetu Initiative, we support young people with innovative ideas by providing funds for their development. Our goal is to empower youths to seize various development opportunities,” he said.

TangaYetu is part of the Foundation Botnar’s OurCity initiative, which supports global cities in leveraging digital technologies and AI to transform into places where young people’s needs and voices are prioritised.

In Tanga, the initiative collaborates with the youth, city council, private sector and NGOs to enhance the health, wellbeing and life prospects of young residents.

Rahim Kassim Makange, Chairman of the Bajaj Bodaboda operators, highlighted this project as a golden opportunity for Tanga’s youths.

“This is a great chance to make our work more profitable. I urge young people to embrace this challenge,” he said.

City Youth Officer Fadhili Secha recognises Bajaj transport as a vital mode of transportation in Tanga.

He pledged the council’s continued cooperation with partners committed to creating employment opportunities for young people and reducing unemployment