Highlights:
- GOGO and Watu Join Forces to Electrify Uganda’s Boda Bodas
- Uganda’s BODAWERK Rebrands as GOGO in Partnership with Watu
In a significant development that will shape the future of transportation in Uganda, the local electric vehicle manufacturer, BODAWERK, has formed a strategic partnership with Watu, a well-known financial services provider. The objective of this collaboration is to support an ambitious expansion project and electrify Uganda’s widely used Boda bodas. As part of this initiative, the company has also revealed its new identity as GOGO.
This announcement was made during an event to appreciate customer service on October 4th and to celebrate Uganda’s Independence Day. The event took place at a luncheon attended by more than 400 boda boda riders in Kampala.
GOGO’s partnership with Watu marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey. Watu, recognized for its expertise in offering financial solutions to entrepreneurs, will play a vital role in funding GOGO’s expansion and electrification projects.
A central focus of this collaboration is the conversion of Uganda’s iconic Boda bodas, which are widely used for transportation in both urban and rural areas. GOGO’s plan is to replace traditional petrol-powered Boda bodas with electric models that are cleaner and more efficient, ultimately reducing emissions and fuel expenses.
During the event, Francis Chandia, EV Manager at Watu, emphasized the advantages of electric transportation, noting that it provides an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. He mentioned that this partnership aligns with Uganda’s goal to increase the number of electric vehicles in the country by 2026. Watu aims to support GOGO in accelerating the production of electric bikes for the market and expanding the network of battery swapping stations. Additionally, they plan to offer financing options to enable many boda operators to make the switch to electric vehicles.
This partnership is expected to facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles by providing accessible and affordable financing options, contributing significantly to Uganda’s sustainability objectives.
According to estimates from the Kampala City Authority, there are approximately 150,000 motorcycles in Kampala, with less than 1% being electric. Nationwide, there are over one million motorcycles, with around 750,000 operating in Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso districts. This suggests a substantial market for electric Boda bodas in Kampala over the next two years.
Kabuye Kyofatogabye, the State Minister of KCCA and Metropolitan Affairs, expressed government support for this partnership. He explained that the government lacks the funds required to replace all the motorcycles in the country, and the involvement of private investors like GOGO and Watu accelerates the process.
Boda boda riders account for over 80% of Uganda’s motorcycle market.
GOGO has set ambitious targets, aiming to have 1,000 riders on the road and 2,000 battery swaps per day by the end of 2023. By the end of 2024, the company plans to have 20,000 riders consuming 3GWh of electricity per month. Additionally, GOGO intends to establish East Africa’s largest lithium-ion battery pack factory in 2024.
The transition to electric Boda bodas is expected to bring about a significant reduction in harmful emissions and lower operating costs for riders and operators. Electric Boda bodas are more energy-efficient and require substantially less maintenance.
Watu’s involvement in this initiative goes beyond funding; they are also offering tailored financial services to Boda boda operators.
