Addressing Africa’s Power Gap with Mobile Charging Stations

Kenyan startup Chargebyte is tackling unreliable electricity access by deploying hybrid mobile charging and connectivity stations in high-traffic public areas. Since launching in 2023, the company has deployed 32 stations across Kenya and is expanding to Rwanda in 2026.

Filling a Critical Infrastructure Gap

Founder and CEO Quinter Ochieng explains that Chargebyte addresses a unique need: while mobile connectivity is widespread, reliable electricity remains scarce. Frequent power outages disrupt digital payments, communications, and small businesses - particularly impacting those who rely on mobile devices for their livelihoods.

Station Features & Impact

Each station can serve up to 200 users per hour with power and Wi-Fi access, enabling continuous operation of phones, wallets, and essential services. Deployments focus on markets, transport hubs, campuses, and community centers - areas where people work, trade, and travel.

Early results show strong demand: the company has over 7,000 repeat monthly users who rely on these stations for consistent power during outages.

Expansion Plans & Partnerships

Chargebyte recently signed an agreement with UNICEF-GIGA to deploy 30 additional units, potentially adding over 10,000 new users by Q1 2026. They’re also exploring expansions into South Africa and Senegal - prioritizing high-density urban areas.

The company generates revenue through pay-per-use services, institutional deployments, advertising, and data insights while maintaining a focus on social impact.