Sweden's government invests over 100 million kronor in electric mopeds in Ghana to meet national climate goals, but the project faces sharp criticism from party leaders and experts following Aftonbladet's investigation. Concerns include ties to Russian interests, doubtful emission reductions, and subsidies to private companies. Several leaders describe the initiative as absurd and misguided.
The government has allocated 109 million kronor to introduce 48,500 electric mopeds in Ghana, aiming to reduce emissions by 250,000 tons of CO2 and offset Swedish emissions. The project is run through a Swiss consulting firm partnering with Solar Taxi in Ghana, but Aftonbladet's investigation reveals delays: the production site has only a shed and five disassembled vehicles.
Party leaders voiced strong criticism ahead of an SVT debate. Center Party's Anna-Karin Hatt states: 'We should not engage in any form of climate colonialism,' emphasizing the need for domestic measures. Sweden Democrats' Jimmie Åkesson calls it 'one of the many absurd effects of the climate goals' and 'completely absurd.' Green Party's Daniel Helldén questions Russian ties and describes the investment as 'a bluff.' Social Democrats' Magdalena Andersson calls for closer scrutiny, while Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch refers to ongoing monitoring.
Experts highlight multiple issues. Only seven charging stations exist in Accra, where 60 percent of electricity comes from fossil fuels. Mopeds are pre-ordered by Bolt and Yango, with Yango maintaining close links to the Russian Yandex, owned by Kremlin-connected investors and Lukoil. Researcher Benedict Probst warns: 'We must look beyond the direct recipients and understand where the money really flows.' Khaled Diab from Carbon Market Watch criticizes the lack of additionality: the project subsidizes private profits rather than genuine emission reductions.
Other experts like John Hassler and Wim Carton question the system's credibility, referencing the Paris Agreement and past failed carbon credits. Ghana's national electric vehicle program and a 21 percent return without support make additionality doubtful.