Prized Bank of the nation, Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE) listed National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has expanded its electric mobility fleet with the acquisition of one electric vehicle (EV) and four electric motorcycles(e-bikes)from Sky Energy Africa as part of its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy.
The latest acquisition forms part of the Bank’s efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of its operations by replacing some conventional fuel-powered vehicles with electric alternatives.
Speaking after receiving the EV and e-bikes on Friday, NBM plc Chief Risk Officer Charles Ulaya said the move was driven by the Bank’s assessment of the environmental impact of its operations.
He said the transition to electric mobility was part of a broader environmental strategy that would also see the Bank explore renewable energy solutions across its operations.
“We are also looking at reducing use of generators in some of our service centres as part of this plan. We are planning to have a solar farm here at the head office, while some of our ATMs and Service Centres are also going to be running on solar power,” said Ulaya.
The latest purchase is not NBM plc’s first investment in electric mobility.
According to Sky Energy Africa, the Bank previously acquired an electric vehicle from the company.
Sky Energy Africa Founder and Managing Director Schizzo Thomson said the acquisition of the EV and e-bikes underscored NBM plc’s efforts to incorporate electric mobility into its operations.
“This means a lot. It demonstrates commitment by National Bank, because this is not their first electric car. They are adding electric cars as well as electric bikes into their pool,” said Thomson.
He said the increasing presence of electric vehicles on Malawi’s roads showed growing interest in electric mobility among both businesses and individuals.
As NBM plc continues to integrate ESG considerations into its operations, the Bank is asking customers and other stakeholders to take steps to reduce environmental impact.
“We are also looking at reducing use of generators in some of our service centres as part of this plan.”
Charles Ulaya
NBM Chief Risk Officer
