Local Asset FinTech firm Watu has confirmed that 2025 recorded a significant recovery in motorcycle sales, validating findings from the latest Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) Leading Economic Indicators report.
According to the KNBS report for November 2025, the number of newly registered vehicles rose from 25,167 units in October to 27,219 units in November. Motorcycles accounted for a substantial share of this growth, with registrations increasing by 19.8 percent to reach 18,839 units in the first eleven months of 2025.
The data points to a steady upward trend throughout the year. Motorcycle sales opened at 12,456 units in January, climbed to 15,699 units by August, and peaked at 18,839 units in November, reflecting sustained demand across multiple sectors of the economy.
SME and transport demand drives growth
Watu Kenya Country Manager Erick Massawe said the KNBS figures mirror the company’s own experience on the ground, with consistent month-on-month growth in demand for motorcycles.
“Demand for motorcycles to power SMEs and public service transport providers maintained steady growth throughout the year,” Massawe said.
Motorcycles remain a critical asset for small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in last-mile delivery, ride-hailing, logistics, and the boda-boda transport sector, where affordability and access to financing are key drivers of uptake.
Industry observers note that improved economic activity, coupled with flexible asset financing models, has played a major role in supporting the rebound in motorcycle sales after previous market slowdowns.
Financing innovation supports market recovery
Watu is an Asset FinTech firm focused on expanding access to mobility through inclusive financing solutions. By targeting underserved customers who often lack formal credit histories, the company has positioned itself as a key player in Kenya’s mass-market mobility ecosystem.
Massawe noted that Watu’s internal data showed stable growth in financing for internal combustion engine two- and three-wheeler motorcycles, alongside rising interest in electric-powered two-wheelers.
“In 2025, we closed the year with approximately 8,000 financed mobility assets, including electric motorbikes,” he said.
He added that traditional financing models often exclude individuals without formal credit records, limiting access to income-generating assets.
“By removing unnecessary barriers, Watu empowers more people to access life-changing assets, whether for mobility, business, or digital connectivity,” Massawe said.
Expansion beyond East Africa
Founded in 2015, Watu has played a central role in transforming the boda-boda and tuk-tuk sector by pioneering asset financing for two- and three-wheeled vehicles. The model has supported ownership, improved transport efficiency, and contributed to job creation and local economic growth.
The firm has since expanded its operations beyond East Africa and now operates in eight African countries. In 2025, Watu also became the first Kenyan heritage international business to enter the Latin American market, establishing operations in Brazil and Mexico.
This international expansion reflects growing confidence in the scalability of Watu’s financing model and the rising global demand for accessible mobility solutions.
Outlook for the motorcycle market
With KNBS data showing sustained growth in motorcycle registrations and FinTech players reporting strong financing activity, the outlook for Kenya’s motorcycle market remains positive.
Analysts say continued adoption of alternative financing models, combined with rising interest in electric mobility, could further reshape the sector in the coming years, supporting employment, entrepreneurship, and more efficient transport systems across the country.
