Airtel Uganda has partnered with Spiro, a leading electric mobility solutions provider, to integrate electric motorcycles into its distribution network.
The move is aimed at improving productivity, lowering operating costs for franchise partners, and eliminating emissions from the last-mile delivery of Airtel products and services across Uganda.
The partnership gives interested Airtel franchise partners an opportunity to own brand-new Spiro electric motorcycles through an affordable, interest-free repayment model facilitated by Airtel. Under the arrangement, repayments will be made through monthly commission deductions over a period of 24 months.
The initiative has commenced with the flag-off of the first 268 SPIRO electric motorcycles, part of more than 1,000 motorcycles ordered by Airtel Uganda. The programme will be rolled out in phases to franchise partners across the country.
Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director of Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited, Japhet Aritho, said the partnership reflects Airtel's commitment to responsible business practices that promote environmental sustainability.
"As Airtel continues to grow, so does our responsibility to ensure that our products and services reach customers faster, more efficiently, and in an environmentally friendly manner. Our franchise partners are the backbone of our distribution network, and today we are investing in them. By making electric motorcycles more accessible, we are helping our partners become more productive, reduce their operating costs, and, together, protect our planet," Aritho said.
Franchise partners play a critical role in Airtel's distribution ecosystem by delivering SIM cards, distributing Airtel Money float, and ensuring customers across Uganda can conveniently access Airtel's products and services.
Through the partnership, franchise partners will benefit from lower operating costs, GPS-enabled motorcycles, reliable after-sales support, and access to Spiro's expanding battery-swapping network. These advantages are expected to enable them to spend more time serving customers while growing their businesses.
Sprio Uganda Country Director Brenden Kachenje said electric mobility is increasingly becoming an important component of corporate sustainability strategies and applauded Airtel for embracing electric vehicles in its operations.
"This partnership reinforces Spiro's commitment to championing a greener, cleaner environment while leading Uganda's e-mobility agenda. We are committed to deploying 50,000 electric motorcycles by December 2026," Kachenje said.
The partnership also supports Airtel Uganda's broader sustainability ambitions by promoting cleaner transport solutions while enhancing operational efficiency.
By replacing fuel-powered motorcycles with electric alternatives, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce operating expenses for franchise partners while lowering carbon emissions.
The launch marks another milestone in Airtel Uganda's efforts to modernize its distribution network and empower the entrepreneurs who play a vital role in connecting millions of Ugandans to digital and financial services.
