The new first-ever locally manufactured electric buses have been unveiled
There were jubilant celebrations in Burkina Faso following President Ibrahim Traoré’s unveiling of the country’s first-ever locally manufactured electric buses, igniting widespread excitement across the nation.
According to online videos, the buses are produced in a state-of-the-art facility located in Ouaga 2000, a prominent tech and business district in the capital, Ouagadougou.
These buses, branded ITAOUA, represent a significant advancement for the continent’s electric vehicle ambitions and position Burkina Faso at the forefront of Africa’s clean energy revolution.
This achievement showcases Burkina Faso’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint, while promoting sustainable transportation solutions.
It highlights the technical skill of Burkinabé engineers and the country’s growing capacity for large-scale innovation.
The ITAOUA electric buses are engineered for both performance and sustainability, boasting an impressive range of 330 kilometers on a single charge, which can be achieved in just 30 minutes.
The manufacturer emphasises that the ITAOUA EV not only excels in performance but also champions eco-friendly technology, being 100% electric and solar-powered.
Africa’s electric vehicle market is projected to reach $15.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $25.4 billion by 2029.
While countries like China, the US, and those in Europe currently dominate global EV sales, accounting for 95% of the market in 2023, Africa is rapidly advancing toward this sector.
For many, this development signifies more than just a technological advancement; it represents a new era of innovation, self-reliance, and hope for African industrialisation.
Botswana has also entered the electric vehicle (EV) race by launching its first locally-assembled electric vehicles in Gaborone, a project resulting from a collaboration between the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI) and two Chinese manufacturers.
Ghana is similarly working to advance EV adoption through policy initiatives, pilot projects, and supportive incentives.
In the video, the celebratory atmosphere is palpable, with people dancing joyfully beside the buses, reflecting the nation’s pride in this historic milestone.
Watch the video below:
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