Zanzibar Rolls Out First 10 Electric Buses to Modernize Public Transport and Cut Emissions
Zanzibar has received its first 10 electric buses at Malindi Port, marking the official launch of the Zan Bus project. The buses arrived on the evening of 25 January 2026 and were immediately transported to the Kijangwani New Bus Terminal in the West Urban District.
Officials confirmed that passenger services will begin in February 2026. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, modernize public transport, and promote cleaner, sustainable mobility across the islands.
It is part of the government’s broader infrastructure upgrade plan under President Hussein Ali Mwinyi.
Phased Rollout of Zanzibar’s Electric Bus Network
The Zanzibar State House announced that the electric bus network will be launched in phases and will be managed by the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF).
The first phase will be operated by South Africa’s Unitrans Transport Company, covering planned routes such as Buyu, Chukwani, Mnazi Mmoja to Malindi, and Airport to Malindi.
Government officials emphasized that the initiative is designed to reduce emissions, support sustainable mobility, and align with Zanzibar’s long-term economic vision under the Blue Economy agenda.
Infrastructure Upgrades to Support the Fleet
The Kijangwani Bus Terminal will serve as the central hub for operations. Additional bus stations and drop-off points are being installed at key locations, including the Airport and Malindi Port, to improve travel reliability and accommodate the transition to electric transport.
The rollout coincides with ongoing investments in Zanzibar’s road network and urban mobility systems. New corridors and improved road links are under construction to ease congestion and support the expanding public transport network.
The Zan Bus project positions Zanzibar as a regional leader in sustainable urban transport, combining cleaner energy, modern infrastructure, and efficient public services.
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