In a significant development for Ethiopia’s burgeoning e-mobility sector, the country’s first Electric Motorbike Owners Association has been established, marking a pivotal step toward fostering a supportive ecosystem for electric vehicle (EV) adoption. With over 280 members already onboard, the association aims to streamline licensing processes, provide resources for riders, and promote compliance with city traffic regulations, ensuring a smoother transition to sustainable urban mobility.
The formation of the association comes at a critical time as Ethiopia seeks to embrace greener transportation solutions. Hilina Legesse, President of the Addis Ababa E-Mobility Association, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, “The launch of Addis Ababa’s first e-mobility association is a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by riders, particularly in the absence of a dedicated support network. Beyond facilitating better communication among riders, this platform will work toward resolving key sector challenges in the coming years.”
The association’s establishment has been spearheaded by Dodai Manufacturing PLC, Ethiopia’s leading electric motorbike (e-motorbike) manufacturer and distributor. Dodai has been at the forefront of the country’s e-mobility revolution, and its latest initiative to cover license plate costs for its first 250 customers further underscores its commitment to making e-motorbike ownership more accessible and affordable.
Yuma Sasaki, Founder and CEO of Dodai, emphasized the company’s broader vision: “Today marks a milestone for Dodai and for Ethiopia. By covering license plate costs and supporting the formation of this association, we are not just simplifying ownership—we are accelerating Ethiopia’s electric mobility revolution. Our goal is to make sustainable transportation accessible to all.”
Dodai’s efforts extend beyond financial incentives. The company is also investing in critical infrastructure, such as battery swap stations and charging facilities, to support the growing demand for electric vehicles. These initiatives align with Dodai’s mission to transform Ethiopia’s urban transportation landscape through innovative, environmentally friendly solutions.
However, challenges remain. Some riders have raised concerns about stringent requirements even after obtaining licensing approvals from relevant authorities. In response, Hilina assured that the association would actively engage with stakeholders to address these issues. “We will engage in further discussions with the concerned bodies to address these challenges and work towards practical solutions,” she said.
The establishment of the Electric Motorbike Owners Association and Dodai’s proactive measures signal a promising future for Ethiopia’s e-mobility sector. As the country continues to prioritize sustainable transportation, these efforts are expected to play a crucial role in driving adoption, improving infrastructure, and addressing the evolving needs of electric vehicle users.
