Kampala, Uganda — A new chapter in Uganda’s urban transport system has begun with the rollout of electric buses on the streets of Kampala, marking a major step towards cleaner and more sustainable mobility in the capital.
Uganda’s Kiira Motors Corporation has officially launched its locally manufactured Kayoola EVB electric buses on selected routes, with the initial deployment beginning on the Kampala–Ntinda corridor.
The buses are part of a broader public transport initiative aimed at reducing emissions, easing traffic congestion, and modernising urban mobility in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
The new service is operated under E-Bus Xpress (EBX), which has introduced a cashless fare system set at a flat rate of 2,000 Uganda shillings. Payments are made electronically using *165#, in line with the government’s push towards digital financial transactions and reduced cash handling in public transport.
The electric buses are designed with modern passenger features, including charging ports, improved seating comfort, and a quieter ride compared to conventional diesel buses. Officials say the system is part of ongoing efforts to promote environmentally friendly public transport solutions.
Kiira Motors has previously tested the Kayoola EVB model in pilot projects and also completed a long-distance African expedition covering more than 13,000 kilometres, which was used to demonstrate the durability and efficiency of the electric vehicle technology.
A conductor attached to the service, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorised to speak to the media, confirmed that operations have begun gradually as the company scales up routes and passenger numbers.
Meanwhile, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has announced plans to introduce at least eight additional electric buses by the end of the month as part of efforts to strengthen urban transport infrastructure and reduce carbon emissions in the city.
Despite the positive reception from some commuters, questions remain over the readiness of Kampala’s road network, the integration of electric buses with existing transport systems such as boda-bodas, and the effectiveness of designated bus lanes in easing congestion.
Transport experts say the success of the initiative will depend on infrastructure improvements, regulatory enforcement, and coordinated planning among stakeholders in the transport sector.
