Germany supports Uganda’s push for solar energy and gender inclusion

Experts have highlighted the Solar-Powered E-Mobility initiative as a game-changer for gender equality and sustainable development in Uganda.

They lauded the launch of a new solar-powered charging station for electric bodas (E-Bodas) and electric vehicles (EVs) in Kampala, calling it a significant step forward in Uganda’s transition to sustainable energy and gender inclusion.

The initiative, which aims to tap into Uganda’s vast solar potential, was unveiled by enPower.life in collaboration with Yujo Izakaya at the Nekosero Shopping and Lifestyle Complex.

The newly installed 40 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system, expanded in 2024 after its initial commissioning in 2022, powers the complex while supporting electric vehicle charging stations and a dedicated charging station for electric motorcycles.

This solar-powered infrastructure is not only boosting Uganda’s renewable energy capacity but also providing eco-friendly transportation solutions, particularly for women in the transport sector.

Matthias Schauer, the German Ambassador to Uganda, emphasised the role of solar energy in Uganda’s energy transition.

"Uganda is increasingly tapping into its solar energy, and I’m pleased that Germany is able to contribute significantly to this development," Schauer stated.

He added that Uganda’s abundant solar resources, combined with its reliance on hydropower, position the country as a leader in renewable energy in Africa.

The collaboration between Germany and Uganda in renewable energy is supported by the German Energy Agency (DENA), which has facilitated solar power installations throughout Uganda.

Empower Life, a German initiative, is at the forefront of bringing solar solutions to Ugandan businesses, significantly reducing their energy costs while supporting the country’s green transition.

Professor Robinah Nanyunja, Executive Director of the Uganda Solar Energy Association (USEA), underscored the transformative potential of solar energy in charging electric vehicles, including both motorbikes and cars.

She highlighted how the initiative could also promote gender inclusion in Uganda’s traditionally male-dominated transport and energy sectors.

“This project is a milestone in reshaping Uganda’s renewable energy landscape,” Prof. Nanyunja said.

Electric bodas, which are more user-friendly than traditional motorbikes, provide women with the opportunity to overcome operational barriers and enter the transport industry.

Prof. Nanyunja noted that these electric motorcycles could empower women, giving them the chance to earn substantial income and actively participate in economic activities.

“It will attract more women into the transport sector, moving them from being mere passengers to active participants,” she added.

The project also enjoys the support of Women on Wheels, a Kampala-based organisation that trains women to become boda drivers.

Sandra Graf, a representative from Wilhelm Buchner University, pointed out the profound social and economic impact of combining e-mobility with gender equality.

“Women on Wheels is creating opportunities that women rarely had before, granting them direct access to mobility and public life,” Graf said.

Participants in the training program gain driving skills, financial literacy, first aid, and family planning training, empowering them to balance work and family responsibilities.

However, a lack of widespread charging infrastructure remains a challenge. Graf emphasised that solar-powered off-grid charging stations could help make boda driving a more viable career for women.

“The resilience of these women is inspiring,” Graf said. “Their newfound independence lays the groundwork for broader change, both in the transport sector and in society.”

Hanif Rehemtulla, CEO of Yujo Izakaya, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s future impact.

He highlighted that the collaboration with enPower.life would help reduce strain on the local grid and lower energy costs, contributing to the sustainability goals of the initiative.

EnPower.life, a German company with over 25 years of experience in renewable energy, is helping Ugandan businesses transition to solar energy through innovative business models that reduce initial investment costs.

As Germany continues to share its expertise in sustainable development with Uganda, this project sets a precedent for future collaborations in the region, showing that clean energy solutions and gender empowerment can go hand in hand to drive social and economic development.