As Africa pivots from traditional fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is emerging as a promising alternative. Known for lower emissions and cost savings, CNG is attracting attention across the continent. In 2024, the African CNG and LPG vehicle market is valued at USD 1.28 billion, with projections to reach USD 1.9 billion by 2029. This rapid growth is driven by several countries championing the transition to CNG through government support, incentives, and new infrastructure.

Here’s a look at six African countries paving the way for a CNG-powered future.

1. Egypt

Egypt is leading Africa’s CNG transition, thanks to substantial government investment in manufacturing, distributing, and servicing CNG vehicles. The Egyptian government has set ambitious targets to convert 2,600 vehicles to CNG monthly, supported by incentives and financing options for individuals and businesses. Their commitment includes building essential infrastructure to make CNG widely accessible and affordable, ensuring Egypt’s position as a pioneer in sustainable transportation.

• Key Initiative: Monthly conversion goal of 2,600 vehicles.
• Support Measures: Financing options and incentives for CNG adoption.

2. Nigeria

Nigeria’s shift toward CNG is equally ambitious. The government aims to convert one million vehicles to CNG by 2025. This includes converting 11,500 buses and providing 55,000 conversion kits for private vehicles. Alongside its CNG efforts, Nigeria is establishing 50 EV charging stations in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to reducing fossil fuel dependence and improving urban air quality.

• Key Initiative: Conversion target of one million vehicles by 2025.
• Additional Effort: Installation of 50 EV charging stations.

3. Morocco

Morocco’s commitment to sustainability is part of a broader vision to have 52% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. As part of this goal, Morocco aims to convert 10,000 taxis to CNG by 2025. This effort supports emissions reduction and stimulates economic growth through government grants and partnerships with private organizations, making CNG adoption more accessible.

• Key Initiative: Conversion of 10,000 taxis to CNG.
• Environmental Goal: 52% renewable energy by 2030.

4. South Africa

Already known for advancing electric vehicle (EV) adoption, South Africa is embracing CNG as a sustainable solution for public transportation. In Johannesburg, the Metrobus fleet now includes over 150 CNG buses, significantly improving air quality and reducing fuel costs. This shift aligns with South Africa’s broader environmental goals, enhancing the affordability and sustainability of urban transportation.

• Key Initiative: 150+ CNG buses in Johannesburg’s Metrobus fleet.
• Impact: Improved air quality and reduced transportation costs.

5. Kenya

Facing significant urban air pollution, Kenya has launched pilot projects to convert public service vehicles (PSVs) to CNG in cities like Nairobi. By prioritizing the conversion of PSVs, Kenya is addressing urban air quality issues while promoting the adoption of CNG-powered vehicles. This initiative aligns with the country’s efforts to foster cleaner, healthier urban environments and a more sustainable transportation system.

• Key Initiative: Pilot projects for CNG conversion of public service vehicles.
• Impact: Cleaner air and healthier urban spaces.

6. Tanzania

Tanzania is making strides in CNG adoption by investing in critical infrastructure, including a CNG mother station worth approximately Sh 14 billion. This station will serve as a primary supply hub, distributing gas to smaller stations nationwide, especially in underserved regions. The development of this infrastructure is central to Tanzania’s strategy to increase CNG vehicle usage and improve air quality nationwide.

• Key Initiative: Construction of a major CNG mother station.
• Purpose: Expand CNG access and reduce emissions across the country.

Conclusion

These six African countries are pioneering a cleaner transportation future by championing the use of CNG. Through innovative government initiatives, strategic infrastructure investments, and supportive policies, they are setting an example for sustainable energy solutions on the continent. As the demand for cleaner alternatives grows, Africa’s journey toward CNG and other renewable energy sources is paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.

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