In this era of the ever-rising pump prices, Botswana is moving towards modernising urban mobility following the historic launch of the public transport services using electric buses.

In an interview with NBC News during the launch of the pilot project aimed at improving public transport and promoting e-mobility in Gaborone and its surrounding areas.

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Keoagile Atamelang, said the ten piloted electric buses are part of the government's effort to improve public transport, reduce environmental pollution and increase adoption of environmentally friendly energy solutions.

Atamelang says the initiative seeks to introduce a more coordinated, reliable and inclusive public transport system, with existing players in the transport industry expected to participate as stakeholders.

"Rising costs are rampant all over the world. This is due to the cost of crude oil. And also, we have a lot of unemployment relative to the transport sector. It is difficult for those who are unemployed to actually penetrate this market. We also have a dilapidated fleet. We also have low standards. Those are the challenges, as they are right now. We are trying to digitise the payment system."

Delivering his State of the Nation Address early this week, President Duma Boko said through innovation and strategic partnerships, the programme aims to improve urban mobility and enhance public transport services for communities.