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Uganda is aiming to obtain orders for at least 1,000 electric buses as part of the Made in Uganda Grand Trans-Africa Electric Expedition, a significant 30-day trip that spans over 13,000 kilometers through Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Botswana, Eswatini, and South Africa, according to government officials who made the announcement in Kampala today.

The objective aims not only to showcase technical expertise but also to create new commercial and industrial opportunities throughout the region, establishing Uganda as a strong contender in Africa’s growing sustainable transportation industry.

The journey is supported by the Kayoola Electric Coach 13M (Model 2025), developed and put together by Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC). Each electric bus ranges in price from Shs500m to Shs700m (roughly USD 130,000 to USD 185,000), based on the features and extra services chosen by the customer, according to an official from KMC who spoke with this reporter.

Kiira Motors takes approximately two weeks to build one coach on average, showcasing increasing technical skills and production effectiveness. Although the majority of parts used in the assembly are still imported, the company has stated that the ultimate aim is to gradually strengthen regional supply networks and increase local manufacturing capabilities.

By traveling through six African countries in this electric bus, Uganda is showing that technology developed locally can enable long-distance travel, cross-border transportation, and real-world usage.

The journey highlights the significance of creativity in boosting industrial competitiveness, opening up new markets, and strengthening a local approach to Africa’s transportation and environmental issues.

The project was made feasible by a robust public-private partnership, with MTN Uganda serving as the primary sponsor and digital connectivity partner, along with the Made in Uganda initiative, Kiira Motors Corporation, and the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat (STI-OP).

At the ceremonial flag-off event in Kampala, Uganda’s largest capital city, Minister of Works and Transport Katumba Wamala emphasized the environmental benefits of electric mass transit in tackling urban transportation issues.

He reasserted his backing for the implementation of electric buses due to their lower emissions and role in creating cleaner, more livable cities. He mentioned that the expedition conveys a strong message that Uganda has confidence in its ability to provide solutions that promote a sustainable future for Africa.

The minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Monica Musenero, referred to the initiative as a powerful indication of Africa’s ability to take the lead in manufacturing when funding, foresight, and creativity come together.

The General Manager of MTN Uganda’s Enterprise Business, Ibrahim Senyonga, stated that the collaboration highlights a common goal of creating an interconnected and environmentally aware Africa.

By offering digital infrastructure along the way, MTN is showing that e-mobility can be efficiently facilitated across the region, while also pushing forward its dedication to reaching Net-Zero emissions by 2040.

As the Kayoola Electric Coach travels across the continent, the journey serves as a symbol of African ingenuity and business drive.

It highlights that challenges in Africa can be resolved through African approaches, while also creating pathways for emerging industrial prospects, regional commerce, and a more environmentally friendly transportation outlook, officials mentioned.

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Tagged: Uganda, Africa, Innovation, East Africa

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