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Recent Advancements in Africa’s DC Charging Infrastructure & Public Networks

The development of efficient and accessible charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly important as e-mobility gains traction across the continent. Central to this infrastructure is the deployment of rapid DC chargers, which significantly reduce charging times compared to slower, cheaper AC chargers.

Unlike AC chargers, which rely on a vehicle’s onboard converter, DC chargers deliver electricity directly to the battery, reducing charging times.

DC rapid chargers can provide up to 80% charge in 15 minutes to an hour, while AC chargers often require overnight charging. DC chargers are particularly crucial for fleet operators, ride-hailing services, and highway corridors, where minimising downtime is essential. However, installations are more complex and costly, requiring power supply upgrades, grid capacity assessments, and load management strategies.

DC fast and rapid chargers come in varying power ratings, from 24kW at the lower end to 350kW (or more) at the higher end. Generally, chargers above 43kW are classified as rapid chargers. The higher the power rating, the faster an electric vehicle charges, provided it’s compatible with the charger’s kW rating. Widespread adoption of standards like CCS, CHAdeMO, NACS, and GB/T is vital to accommodate different EV models from around the world.

Several key players are driving the expansion of fast charging infrastructure in Africa. In South Africa, companies like GridCars have been instrumental, establishing over 350 publicly accessible charging stations nationwide, including both fast AC and rapid DC units. Collaborations between charge point installers and operators (CPOs) have bolstered the network, with initiatives aimed at increasing the availability of fast chargers across the region.

Kabisa, a Rwandan e-mobility company, is expanding EV infrastructure with Rwanda’s first ultrafast charging hub at SP Kanombe, near Kigali International Airport. The 240 kW Supercharger, with six ports, enables rapid charging in 15–25 minutes. This hub is part of Kabisa’s broader network of 26 public charging points, strategically positioned for commercial transport. Supported by partnerships with SP Rwanda and Ireme Invest, Kabisa is leveraging public-private collaboration to drive EV adoption, proving that these developments can be successful when underpinned by an integrated national e-mobility framework. Grant funding from international organisations and development agencies can accelerate these high-capital-cost projects, providing the financing to overcome initial investment hurdles.

Despite these advancements in certain parts of Africa, the overall number of DC fast chargers on the continent remains limited, highlighting the need for continued investment and development.

Expanding DC charging networks in Africa faces challenges, including the “chicken and egg” problem, where limited infrastructure deters EV adoption, and investors hesitate without sufficient users. Inconsistent policies, high installation costs, and concerns about grid capacity further complicate deployment.

Market actors remain optimistic, with many EV chargepoint manufacturers showcasing their product portfolios at the 2023 Smarter Mobility Africa Summit in South Africa, garnering significant interest. ABB, for example, a world-leading DC equipment supplier, successfully showcased its advanced DC Terra charging solution range. The summit brought together thousands from across Africa and around the world, highlighting the interest in various EV charging solutions for Africa.

Facilitating widespread DC rapid charger deployment in Africa requires streamlined regulations, creative financial incentives, and partnerships to reduce costs and accelerate rollout. Standardised protocols will ensure interoperability, while smart charging technologies improve efficiency. With coordinated stakeholder efforts, Africa has the opportunity to develop a robust fast-charging network, overcoming infrastructure barriers and promoting sustainable transportation across the continent.

Reference List:

https://www.transportation.gov/rural/ev/toolkit/ev-basics/charging-speeds
https://www.ampcontrol.io/post/ac-or-dc-charging-stations-which-is-best-for-electric-fleet-vehicles
https://bolt.earth/blog/south-africa-ev-market
https://cleantechnica.com/2025/02/15/kabisa-enables-commercial-ev-adoption-in-east-africa-by-launching-1st-ultrafast-charging-hub-in-kigali
https://kznindustrialnews.co.za/the-latest-ev-charging-solutions-drive-smart-e-mobility/
https://afdc.energy.gov/files/u/publication/EV_Charger_Selection_Guide_2018-01-112.pdf
https://pod-point.com/guides/how-dc-charging-works
https://new.abb.com/ev-charging/terra-dc-wallbox

About the author

Daniel Barham
Project Manager | e-Mobility, Clean-Tech, Digital Media

Daniel Barham

A highly motivated and resourceful project manager with extensive experience in the e-Mobility and energy management-infrastructure space. Passionate about Clean-Tech, and determined to work with an organisation that actively contributes towards sustainable international development.