transport 3 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Launches Electric Buses in Kampala, Eyes Expansion to 14 Cities
The Ugandan government has kicked off electric bus services in Kampala to tackle fuel shortages and promote clean transport, with plans to deploy around 1,500 buses across 14 cities by June 2030. The initiative starts with eight buses on select routes as officials assess market demand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-launches-electric-buses-in-kampala-with-plans-to-extend-across-14-cities-5445440
The Ministry of Science and Technology officially unveiled the e-mobility transport system in Kampala on Saturday, with ministers Monica Musenero and Gen. Katumba Wamala flagging off the first electric bus at Kololo.
State Minister Musenero explained that the buses will operate on specific routes initially, allowing the government to evaluate market response amid global fuel challenges. “All Ugandans, you know now that globally there is a challenge of fuel, so to alleviate this crisis, we had to introduce these electric buses,” she stated.
Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, announced ambitions to extend the service nationwide, targeting 14 cities with about 1,500 electric buses by June 2030. The rollout began with eight buses in Kampala, with further expansion based on demand.
This move supports environmental goals and job creation. Kiira Motors Corporation recently secured a $150 million deal to supply 450 electric Kayoola buses to a South African firm, potentially scaling to 820 units worth $250 million, following a successful demonstration drive from Kampala to Cape Town.
Minister of State for Kampala, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, hailed the buses as a solution to the city’s public transport woes, crediting presidential vision. State Minister for Energy, Opolot Okasai, noted it aligns with energy conservation laws.
The government has invested over UGX 658 billion ($175 million) in e-mobility from 2018 to 2025 across 14 companies.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)