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At Day 3 of #AEW2024, our Kenya Country Manager, Erick Massawe , joined a panel alongside industry leaders from M-KOPA, AUTO24.africa, and EV World Africa, to discuss 'The Role of Consumer Financing and Insurance in the EV Transition.' Here are some key takeaways from the session: 1. Market Product Fit and Default Risk: Erick emphasized that the use case of e-bikes resonates deeply with our customers, especially in terms of economic savings. For many, e-bikes represent a powerful tool to optimize their businesses. Watu’s mission is to empower entrepreneurs to aim higher and achieve more, especially in underserved markets often seen as unprofitable. 2. EV vs. ICE Risk Comparison: When comparing EVs to traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) bikes, Erick highlighted the reduced operational risks of EVs, particularly with the integration of IoT technology. This transition minimizes the risks associated with ICE bikes and opens opportunities to improve, ultimately driving down costs and offering better value for customers. 3. Affordability of Financing: While many may assume Watu is focused on making massive profits, the reality is we're making a massive impact. We target the underserved mass market with comprehensive services, ensuring our financing remains affordable. By sourcing working capital from Kenya through commercial loans, we reduce exposure to liability and maintain an operationally intensive model that supports our customers effectively. 4. Retrofitting and Asset Optimization: Erick also touched on the importance of understanding customers’ use cases. Watu refurbishes old bikes, giving them a second life and helping customers optimize their assets. The message is clear! The EV transition is not just the future, it’s happening now. Watu is leading the charge by bridging the gap between consumer financing and the practical needs of the e-mobility revolution. Thank you to our host Africa E-Mobility Week, Africa E-Mobility Alliance for convening this important event, as we work to further the E-Mobility agenda in Africa and beyond! #Watu4Watu #AEW2024 #EMobilityLeaders

Our Kenya Country Manager, Erick Massawe, recently sat down with Standard Group PLC to discuss the BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) credit model that has empowered many boda boda entrepreneurs to own their motorcycles outright, enabling them to retain 100% of the profits earned from their assets. In addition, Erick emphasized Watu’s commitment to e-mobility and its strategic transition towards sustainable financing. Drawing on insights from East Africa, Erick remarked, “What we’re learning in Uganda and Rwanda is shaping the future of mobility in Kenya. We are now financing electric bikes from multiple manufacturers, as we maintain a brand-agnostic approach.” Read more of the article here: https://lnkd.in/dQFM7q_m #Watu4Watu #BNPL #FinancialEmpowerment

We were proud to have Steve Onyango [Econ, CPA, CISA, MBA], our Head of Finance, represent Watu at #AEW2024, hosted by the Africa E-Mobility Alliance During the panel on de-risking investments in E-Mobility, Steve shared key insights alongside leaders from Spiro, Powerhive, GreenMax Capital Group, and MOGO Kenya. 🔑Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Financing Challenges for 2-3 Wheelers: Traditional banks struggle to finance 2-3 wheelers, which is why Watu and others are stepping in. We need regulatory support to create an enabling environment and clearer definitions for companies in the mobility sector. 2️⃣ Battery Technology & Circular Economy: There's a crucial need for technical assistance and R&D into battery technology. With batteries losing 40-60% of their capacity, creating secondary markets for used batteries and focusing on waste management is key to sustainability. 3️⃣ Industry Growth Needs More Players: The e-mobility industry is still young in Kenya, and more stakeholders need to come together to support growth. Increased awareness, teaching, and collaboration are essential to smooth the transition. 4️⃣ Data-Driven Operations & Future Opportunities: Leveraging data to optimize operations and transparently providing insights are crucial. As we aim for an electric future, trade-in opportunities will be critical to supporting the transition. We’re grateful to the Africa E-mobility Alliance and our fellow panelists for driving this important conversation. #Watu4watu #ElectricMobility #SustainableFinance #DeRisking #CleanEnergy #AEW2024

We’re excited to celebrate financing over 100,000 phones in Uganda! This incredible achievement brings us closer to our mission of driving #DigitalInclusion across the region. By empowering individuals and businesses with affordable, flexible financing, we’re opening doors to essential services and creating brighter futures for all. We’re just getting started! Here’s to many more milestones ahead as we continue to bridge the #DigitalDivide and transform lives through mobile technology! #Watu4Watu #WatuSimu #Connectivity 

Africa E-mobility Week is officially here! 🎊 As we commemorate this hallmark event, let’s take a moment to reflect on our e-mobility journey and celebrate the key milestones we've reached so far in accelerating access to E-mobility across East Africa. #Watu4Watu #AEW2024 #EmobilityAfrica

Following up on our exciting announcement about Steve Onyango, we’re also thrilled to share that Erick Massawe, our Kenya Country Manager, will be joining the conversation at #AEW2024 this week! On September 19th, Erick will be speaking on 'The Role of Consumer Financing and Insurance in the EV Transition,' offering valuable insights on how Watu is empowering the e-mobility movement through tailored financing solutions. Don’t miss out! Join us at the Sarit Expo Center and be part of game changing conversations.   #Watu4Watu #EmobilityAfrica #EmobilityLeaders 

We’re excited to share that our Head of Finance, and Treasurer of Electric Mobility Association of Kenya (EMAK), Steve Onyango [Econ, CPA, CISA, MBA], will be taking the stage at #AEW2024, hosted by the Africa E-Mobility Alliance ! Join us on September 18th at the Sarit Expo Center as Steve dives into the crucial conversation on ‘De-risking Investments: Unlocking Financing Instruments for E-Mobility in Africa.’ Don't miss out on this chance to hear from industry leaders and discover the game-changing solutions shaping the future of e-mobility in Africa! #Watu4Watu #EmobilityAfrica #EmobilityLeaders 

We wish you a joyous day filled with blessings and peace! 🕌 🌙 #Maulid2024 #MaulidDay

🌍 Flying the Watu flag high, one peak at a time! 🚩 Congratulations to Philip Ochola, our IT Infrastructure and Security Manager, who recently summited Lenana Peak, Mt. Kenya (4,985m) on the 7th of September 2024, after a challenging 3-day journey, completing the climb in just 23.5 hours! 🕒 What an amazing feat! 🏔️ Driven by personal goals and his daughters, Kyla and Taji (KyTa), Philip took on this climb with strength and purpose, raising awareness for Trisomy 13 while honouring the memory of a loved one. In his words, “I think there's no better place to scream than the top of a mountain.” Philip's journey is a powerful testament to his dedication. He spent nearly a year preparing for the climb, enduring freezing nights, unpredictable weather, and the absence of his favourite home-cooked meal of ugali and managu. Yet, he pushed through, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his goal. 🌄❄️ “The beautiful sunrise on summit day was an unforgettable sight, it felt amazing to witness nature in its purest form. The scenery was breathtaking, ‘kuwa kwa kichaka’ as I like to call it! And with zero phone network, it gave me plenty of time to connect with my guide, the porters, and other fellow hikers. It was a truly grounding experience.” Through the trek, Philip proudly carried the Watu spirit to new heights, showcasing our drive to reach the top in everything we do. His journey doesn't stop here; he's on a quest to conquer the 7 Mountains Challenge with many more summits. 💪🏾 We're incredibly proud of you, Philip! Keep soaring, and thank you for making us all proud! #Watu4Watu

We're thrilled to have participated in Glovo's #GlovoCourierWeek2024! Our interactive session with boda boda riders on #RoadSafety aligns perfectly with Watu's commitment to safer roads, exemplified by our nationwide Tujenge Msingi initiative. We also had the opportunity to showcase our financial inclusive solutions for underserved customers, highlighting our exciting EV partnership with ARC Ride. A big thank you to the Glovo team for organizing this fantastic event, empowering entrepreneurs to become safer and more environmentally conscious riders. #Watu4Watu #TujengeMsingi #Finacialinclusion #EMobility