- Uganda’s baby steps towards transitioning to electric mobility are steadily becoming more viable than ever, thanks to the expansion of charging infrastructure across the country.
- Though the country planned to have installed at least 50 EV charging stations by 2025, the current trends speak differently, with charging points being quickly set up.
Uganda’s baby steps towards transitioning to electric mobility (e-mobility) are steadily becoming more viable than ever, thanks to the expansion of charging infrastructure across the country. The shortage of charging facilities earlier hindered Uganda’s shift to e-mobility.
This growth began with battery-swapping stations for electric motorcycles and has now evolved into a trend where many petrol stations incorporate e-mobility charging points. Some locations focus on motorcycles, while others serve both cars and bikes. The Ministry of Energy pioneered this movement by installing two EV-charging stations in front of its headquarters on Kampala Road in the heart of the capital.
Though the country planned to have installed at least 50 EV charging stations by 2025, the current trends speak differently, with charging points being quickly set up at shopping centres, offices, and residential complexes.
A manager of a big filling station in Kampala city, who requested anonymity due to company policy, confirmed that the number of vehicles utilising these charging facilities has risen from near-zero over the past six months. “Previously, we would see one customer a week, but now it is almost one per day, especially for plug-in hybrids; we even have three Teslas that come to charge here,” he shared, noting that the station offers both AC and DC charging ports, allowing for both slow and fast charging options.
Currently, EV charging is provided at no cost, and vehicles typically require an hour to recharge during daytime visits. The manager also mentioned that two Italian motorcycle owners are among the most frequent two-wheeler clients at the station.
Bernard Kasirivu, an e-boda-boda rider, explained that he pays 89,000 shillings for acquisition per week to the company that financed his electric motorcycle. This weekly payment has become manageable thanks to the availability of charging points throughout the city. “I’m optimistic about completing the two-and-a-half-year loan, thanks to the multiple charging locations that ensure I never run out of power after the 105 kilometres,” Kasirivu said.
Kasirivu’s supplying company has established charging points at various locations, including Total Wampewo, Motor Care Kitgum House, Nakasero Primary School, Nexus Green Nakawa, Mutungo Biina, Kitintale, and along Gayaza Road.
Uganda’s move towards e-mobility poses a significant step towards environmental sustainability and protection, as vehicle emissions contribute to 42 per cent of urban air pollution in Uganda.
Each e-bike prevents around 2.5 tons of carbon emissions annually, unlike the pollutive traditional motorcycles, and saves on fuel expenses, with battery life extending for 3-4 years, making it not only economical but environmentally friendly.