Living in an age of globalisation requires technological breakthroughs that can permeate and improve societies around the world.
We need global solutions which are accessible, transferable, and affordable, so that we can all play our role in collective responsibility for the planet. Advancements in the sustainable production of energy and its application in the world are key to how we manage our natural resources, look after the environment, and encourage economic, cultural, and philosophical growth. Humanity as a whole is only as strong as our weakest link. For a sustainable future the most advanced societies need to find ways for less advanced societies to avail themselves of the basic blueprints behind technological progress.
An example of this progress is how the electric vehicle revolution is shaping the future of the most “modern” cities. EV ‘s will reduce noise and lower emissions and eventually involve autonomous driving. This technological shift has been interpreted by a Ugandan startup company based in Kampala called Zembo Motorcycle. Zembo are preempting the global world automakers by combining EV and solar technology.
Over 40% of fares in Uganda’s capital Kampala are completed by motorcycle taxis known locally as boda bodas. In the country as a whole there are over 600,000 of them. There are approximately 150,000 of these motorcycle drivers in Kampala which boasts a population of around 2 million people.
In 2017, engineers Daniel Dreher and Etienne Saint Sernin saw an opportunity to introduce e-motorbikes which are recharged using solar stations. Boda boda drivers can access the e-bikes on a rent-to-buy scheme which harnesses environmentally friendly zero-CO2 battery technology and uses charging stations across the city. A full charge takes 3-4 hours and offers a range of 50-80 kilometres. A discharged battery can be replaced for a fully charged unit in under 2 minutes at numerous battery stations. These batteries are rented, however Zembo offers a lease-to-own programme which transfers ownership of a motorbike after 2 years.
With one of Africa’s largest populations, Uganda is witnessing a surge in urban development. Offering competitive prices and proven efficiency the boda boda taxis offer a realistic public transport solution. The increasing pressure to lower air pollution and a current climate of low battery prices together provide a workable recipe for sustainable modernisation. Add to the mix a clean, near constant, solar energy source and the future looks rosy.
Zembo Motorcycle’s place in the global movement towards sustainable energy solutions is assured…even if they are our weakest link
The phrase “making the world a better place” has become something of a green washing platitude these days. Of course, many business innovations lead to new breakthroughs that foster positive change. However, most modern tech giants are more concerned with their bottom line, while claiming to work for the common good.
Fortunately, there are quite a lot of start-ups that actually succeed in making the world a better and safer place. In this Buzz series, D.B.G (Buzz writer Daniel Barnaby Goddard) presents to you purpose driven entrepreneurs from various industries around the world that have the right idea when it comes to tackling social, economic, and environmental issues.
