By Nasser Kayanja
The State Minister for Kampala Metropolitan Affairs, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, has called for increased adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), saying the shift is critical to reducing carbon emissions and protecting public health.
The minister made the remarks during the launch of the Union Boda–Spiro environmental awareness campaign dubbed “Zukuka – Make a Smart Move”, held at the Multipurpose Hall in Lugogo, Kampala. The initiative encourages boda boda riders to transition from fuel-powered motorcycles to electric alternatives.
Addressing members of Union Boda, Kyofatogabye said he regularly receives environmental reports indicating rising levels of carbon and biogas emissions in Kampala. He warned that pollution is contributing to preventable illnesses and premature deaths, noting concerns about increasing emissions in the city’s atmosphere.
He urged electric mobility providers to expand their services beyond the boda boda sector and explore partnerships within the taxi industry to further cut emissions across urban transport.
Spiro’s General Manager, Bruce (single name provided), reaffirmed the company’s commitment to scaling up electric mobility in Uganda. He said Spiro plans to introduce up to 100,000 electric motorcycles onto the Ugandan market and pledged to ensure a wide distribution of battery swap stations to support riders across the country.
Union Boda Project Advisor Fred Ssenoga revealed that planning for the campaign began six months ago. He said the initiative is intended to improve riders’ livelihoods while reducing dependence on petroleum products. According to Ssenoga, environmental data shows that Uganda — particularly Kampala — faces growing risks linked to air pollution, and embracing electric transport is one way to reverse the trend.
Union Boda Chairman Frank Mawejje announced ambitious rollout targets, stating that the association aims to deploy 50,000 electric motorcycles within five months, with at least 10,000 expected on the roads by the end of this year. He also unveiled a team of Union Boda ambassadors tasked with promoting electric bike adoption among riders and the wider public.
Mawejje added that the initiative also seeks to advocate for policies that favor electric vehicles, including the introduction of EV-friendly tax measures to discourage reliance on fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions.
Organizers say the “Zukuka – Make a Smart Move” campaign marks a significant step toward cleaner, more sustainable urban transport in Uganda.