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Bamboo Labs, the Ethiopian social enterprise recognized for its eco-conscious innovation in crafting bicycles and wheelchairs from bamboo, is now setting its sights on expansion into Kenya. The move marks a significant step in the company’s mission to provide affordable, sustainable mobility solutions across East Africa.
Founded four years ago, Bamboo Labs has become a trailblazer in utilizing locally sourced bamboo to manufacture functional, durable bicycles and assistive devices like wheelchairs. The company is now preparing to kick off its initial operations in Nairobi within the next two weeks. According to founder Abel Hailegiorgis, the first phase of this expansion includes a two-week training program designed to equip local workers with the skills needed for bamboo-based manufacturing.
Abel revealed that all logistical preparations are already in place: materials and components for around 100 bamboo bicycles have been shipped and secured, ensuring a smooth start to the Kenyan operations.“Kenya has the next largest bamboo resource in Africa,” Abel explained. “We hope to replicate the success of our Ethiopian model by leveraging the local bamboo industry and creating job opportunities.”
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Ethiopia currently holds one of the largest bamboo reserves in Africa, with over 1.4 million hectares of bamboo forests, accounting for approximately 7% of the world’s total bamboo coverage. The country is home to two major species—Yushania alpina (highland bamboo) and Oxytenanthera abyssinica (lowland bamboo)—which thrive in its diverse climates. In contrast, Kenya has around 150,000 hectares of natural bamboo, making it the next promising hub for bamboo-related innovation in the region. Through its expansion, Bamboo Labs aims not only to scale its business model but also to foster environmental sustainability, local craftsmanship, and green mobility across the African continent.
