Exhibitors display electric vehicles at the Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, Nov. 25, 2024. (Michael Tewelde)

NNA News - Ethiopia has taken another step towards becoming one of Africa's leading electric mobility markets after launching a fast electric vehicle (EV) charging hub capable of charging 24 vehicles simultaneously in Addis Ababa. The facility, located at the Kilinto Industrial Park, comes as Ethiopia continues an aggressive transition away from fuel-powered vehicles following the government's 2024 decision to ban the import of petrol and diesel cars.

Officials say the new charging station forms part of a broader national strategy to support the country's rapidly growing electric vehicle fleet, which has already surpassed 140,000 vehicles. "We are building the infrastructure needed for the future of transportation in Ethiopia," Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) Chief Executive Officer Getu Geremew said during the launch.

According to the EEU, the first phase of the programme includes the construction of 40 charging centres across the country, while a second phase will establish a nationwide charging network stretching along major transport corridors, including the strategic Ethiopia-Djibouti trade route.

The move comes as African countries increasingly explore electric mobility as a solution to rising fuel costs, climate commitments and energy security concerns. State Minister of Transport and Logistics Bareo Hassen said Ethiopia's transition demonstrates the country's commitment to modernising transport while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

A visitor sits in a GAC car during the launching event of GAC JUNTU flagship showroom in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, March 27, 2026. (Geng Xinning)

The government plans to deploy approximately 2,300 charging stations over the next decade and aims to have more than 500,000 electric vehicles on Ethiopian roads by 2032. Industry analysts say Ethiopia's experience could provide lessons for other African countries seeking to expand electric transport systems, particularly as global fuel price volatility and environmental concerns continue to influence transport policies across the continent.