Nairobi’s Iconic 'Nganyas' Go Green With Rooftop Solar Panels to Power Onboard Systems

Nairobi's flamboyant matatus, iconic minibuses known for their vibrant exteriors and high-decibel interiors, are undergoing a sustainable transformation by integrating rooftop solar panels. 

This shift towards cleaner energy offers a cost-effective model within East Africa's bustling transport network, addressing the sector's historical reliance on multiple car batteries and overworked alternators. The "Nganya" models, celebrated for their immersive sound systems, neon lighting, and large screens, previously demanded significant energy, leading operators to employ up to three car batteries and dual alternators per vehicle. This configuration not only consumed space but also incurred frequent replacements, posing a financial and environmental burden. 

The introduction of solar technology marks a significant advancement. Initially used in residential and commercial settings, solar panels now power auxiliary systems on matatus, improving operational efficiency. These installations allow onboard systems—lights, speakers, and displays—to draw energy independently from the engine, reducing fuel consumption, easing strain on mechanical components, and lowering emissions. Jaramba Lighting, a prominent lighting expert collaborating with matatu crews, highlights the practical benefits. 

"Before solar, operators needed spare batteries to avoid service interruptions. Now, solar allows consistent performance at lower operational costs while protecting vehicle engines from overload."

The environmental implications of this transition are substantial. While solar panels do not yet directly power the vehicles, their integration significantly reduces dependence on fossil-fuelled generators and conventional battery systems. Discarded car batteries contribute to toxic waste, while fuel consumption elevates carbon emissions. By adopting solar power, matatu owners are curbing emissions at the grassroots level, providing a replicable model for other informal industries.

This development aligns with Kenya’s broader ambitions to expand its renewable energy portfolio, encompassing geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar, to establish a greener electricity grid supporting electric mobility. With transport accounting for approximately 23 percent of the nation’s Carbon dioxide emissions, authorities view innovation in this sector as crucial. During Nairobi’s 3rd Annual E-Mobility Stakeholders Conference, Principal Secretary for Energy Alex Wachira reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to decarbonising its roads through homegrown solutions.