Uganda's electric transport revolution gains speed with e-bodas and buses

The United Nations has declared 2026–2035 the Decade of Sustainable Transport. Uganda is already taking steps to modernise its transport sector with electric vehicles. Rising fuel prices have made alternatives like e-boda taxis more attractive to residents like Brenda Anena. Fuel costs in Uganda have climbed sharply, with a litre now priced at €1.55, up from €1.20 before the Iran conflict. This increase has pushed many to consider electric options.

Zembo has expanded its presence in Kampala by installing 42 swap-and-charge stations for its e-motorcycles. These allow riders to quickly exchange batteries instead of waiting for a full charge. Brenda Anena is among those switching to e-boda taxis, drawn by their lower running costs, even though fares remain the same as traditional motorcycle taxis.

In Jinja, nearly 50 electric buses have been assembled so far. The city is becoming a hub for sustainable transport in the region. Meanwhile, AfricroozE, a German company, plans to introduce electric cargo bikes across Africa, beginning with Jinja.

Uganda has set ambitious targets to phase out combustion-engine motorcycles by 2030 and fully electrify its transport sector by 2040. German support is also growing, with KfW and DEG backing investments in e-mobility. Bodawerk, another German startup, has now entered Uganda’s e-motorcycle market, competing with Zembo. The shift towards electric transport is gaining momentum in Uganda. More stations, vehicles, and investment are making e-mobility a practical choice. The country’s long-term goals align with global efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainable travel.