Taxi Operators Protest Electric Bus Launch in Kampala Over Unfair Competition

Taxi operators in Kampala are voicing strong objections to the recent introduction of electric buses by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Kiira Motors. The pilot project launched eight buses on select city routes last week, flagged off by Ministers Monica Musenero and Katumba Wamala at Kololo.

Rashid Ssekindi, leader of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOF), argues that these government-backed buses enjoy tax exemptions and lower operational costs, putting private taxis at a disadvantage. ‘The regulator is collaborating with the manufacturer without consulting us, while we bear full taxes and fuel expenses,’ he stated.

Operators feel betrayed, noting prior agreements with Kiira Motors to develop affordable mini-buses tailored to local roads for private use. Mustapha Mayambala, another UTOF leader, pointed out the irony: KCCA bans taxis from roadside loading but permits e-buses there without fees, unlike taxis paying park user charges.

KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki defended the move, citing Cabinet approval and ongoing licensing talks with the Ministry of Works and Transport. She emphasized that the e-buses will enhance air quality, with plans to expand beyond the initial eight vehicles.

This initiative reflects broader government efforts to modernize urban transport, reduce congestion, and cut emissions. Transport Minister Gen Katumba Wamala announced ambitions for 1,500 e-buses across 14 cities by 2030. Private taxis have long dominated since the 1990s liberalization, but face challenges from high costs, aging fleets, and competition from motorcycles.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)