EKA Mobility Launches Zanzibar’s First Electric Bus Fleet

EKA Mobility, an electric commercial vehicle manufacturer, has launched its state-of-the-art 12-metre electric buses in Zanzibar. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the President of Zanzibar, who unveiled the buses and flagged off the first electric bus fleet for public operations in Zanzibar.

The first fleet of EV buses will commence commercial operations from August 1,  2026, marking the beginning of the island's transition to zero-emission public transport.

The deployment forms part of a larger electric mobility programme under which 35 buses have already been ordered, with the total fleet expected to expand to 150 EKA electric buses by the end of the year. The initiative is aimed at reducing transport emissions while simultaneously creating new employment opportunities and developing technical skills within the local community.

Vijay Yelne, President – Export Marketing and SCM, EKA Mobility, said, "The launch of Zanzibar's first electric bus fleet is a strong validation of EKA's technology and our ability to deliver world-class electric mobility solutions beyond India. It demonstrates that products designed and manufactured in India can successfully meet the evolving mobility needs of international markets. This is another step in taking Indian engineering to the world, and we see Africa as a key growth market in EKA's global expansion journey."

The flag-off ceremony also witnessed the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including senior officials from the Government of Zanzibar and Bishwajit Dey, High Commissioner of India to Tanzania, along with representatives from ZSSF and GRT and senior leadership from EKA Mobility.

As part of the long-term partnership, the company is working alongside Global Rapid Transport (GRT) to train local personnel across vehicle operations, maintenance, software systems and safety, ensuring the development of a self-sustaining electric mobility ecosystem in Zanzibar. In parallel, the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF), together with GRT, has undertaken multiple initiatives to support local capacity building and operational readiness.

The Zanzibar deployment further strengthens EKA Mobility's international footprint while reinforcing India's position as a global hub for advanced electric commercial vehicle manufacturing. Built on EKA's next-generation electric platform, the 12M buses deliver zero tailpipe emissions, high efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort, making them ideally suited for modern urban mobility.

With this landmark deployment, EKA Mobility continues its mission of delivering sustainable, intelligent and reliable transportation solutions designed in India for the world.