Electric buses launched to ease Kampala traffic congestion
Students will pay their fares using wristbands under the company's School Cashless Days campaign
KAMPALA, August 30, 2026 — The Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Minsa Kabanda, has commissioned 15 electric buses to serve Kira Municipality in Wakiso district.
The buses were launched at Kiira Prayer Ground and are expected to improve public transport while helping to reduce traffic congestion in the Kampala metropolitan area.
Manufactured locally by Kiira Motors Corporation and operated by E-Bus Express Kira Limited, the buses will operate on the Kisasi–Kyanja–Kungu–Ntinda, Najjera–Nakwero, and Ntinda–Naalya–Namugongo–Seeta routes.
Speaking at the launch, Kabanda described the project as a significant step towards modernising public transport and easing congestion in the greater Kampala area.
“I am one of the happiest people today because of these buses,” Kabanda said, noting that reliable bus transport had once been the backbone of travel in Kampala.
The launch follows an initiative that began on May 1, 2026, when Kampala introduced its first eight Kayoola electric buses. The addition of the 15 buses brings the fleet to 23, reflecting growing investment in cleaner, safer and more reliable public transport.
Kabanda called for the service to be expanded to Entebbe, Wakiso and Kampala’s central business district, saying this would help reduce overreliance on taxis and phase out dangerous and poorly maintained vehicles from the roads.
She also urged bus operators to provide adequate passenger facilities, including public toilets for long-distance travellers, citing countries such as Saudi Arabia as examples of places where such infrastructure has been developed.
Kabanda commended Kiira Motors Corporation and E-Bus Express for translating local manufacturing into practical transport solutions for Ugandans.
“The introduction of electric buses is a bold step towards embracing clean energy, reducing emissions and creating smarter mobility solutions for our rapidly growing communities,” she said.
“I commend Kiira Motors Corporation, E-Bus Express, MTN Uganda and all partners for investing in innovations that put Uganda on the path to sustainable urban transport.
“As we work to improve the quality of life for our people, initiatives like this remind us of the importance of embracing technology, supporting local innovation and building a cleaner and more connected Uganda.”
Eng. Ian John Kavuma, the Managing Director of E-Bus Xpress Kiira Ltd, said fares would start at Shs 800 for adults and Shs 400 for students, depending on the distance travelled.
He said the buses would operate on scheduled services and would offer air conditioning, onboard Wi-Fi, cashless payment systems and modern safety features.
Students will pay their fares using wristbands under the company’s School Cashless Days campaign.
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