transport 6 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Busoga Shifts to Electric Transport Amid Soaring Fuel Costs
Rising fuel prices in Uganda's Busoga region are driving riders and commuters to adopt electric buses, motorcycles, and bicycles for their lower costs, reliability, and environmental benefits. Initiatives from Kiira Motors, Watu Credit, and FABIO are accelerating the transition despite ongoing challenges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/rising-fuel-prices-push-busoga-toward-electric-transport-5448728
In Uganda’s Busoga sub-region, escalating fuel prices due to global disruptions are pushing transport operators and commuters toward electric alternatives. Electric buses, motorcycles, and bicycles are gaining traction for their affordability and dependability.
Electric buses in Jinja City, like those on the E-Xpress fleet, provide steady service without fuel queue delays. Driver Musa Taalaba notes that charging eliminates hours wasted at pumps, cutting stress and stabilizing fares. Passengers such as vendor Sarah Nabirye and student David Kato praise consistent pricing, quiet rides, and no exhaust fumes.
Kiira Motors Corporation launched its electric bus pilot in Jinja in November 2024 with 16 vehicles, serving over 360,000 passengers and covering 614,000 kilometers while slashing emissions by 398 tonnes. The project expanded to Greater Kampala on May 1, 2026, aiming for 300 buses by 2027 and 1,500 across 14 cities by 2031. Government strategies support this shift toward fully electric passenger vehicles by 2040.
Boda boda riders are saving up to 50% on costs with electric motorcycles, which run at Shs99 per kilometer versus Shs120–140 for petrol bikes. Watu Credit reports over 180 battery swap stations, mostly in Busoga, enabling quick recharges. Rider Eria Musobya, from Jinja’s association, highlights Shs8,500 for 85 kilometers compared to Shs25,000 on fuel, boosting earnings for about 300 of 8,900 local riders.
Electric bicycles are popular in rural areas, offering 50 kilometers per Shs1,000 charge at speeds up to 35 km/h. FABIO’s pilots target farmers and health workers with flexible financing to promote zero-emission mobility.
Challenges persist, including limited charging infrastructure, high upfront costs, rural power access, and import taxes. Yet, as fuel prices climb, electric options are proving essential for reliable, cleaner transport.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)