Kampala Eyes Green Moblity For A Cleaner Future
Kampala’s streets are overwhelmed by traffic congestion, polluted air, and relentless noise, making daily life increasingly difficult for residents.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago points to boda bodas—an estimated 350,000 motorbikes operating in the city—as significant contributors to air pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Keep Reading
“The contribution of boda bodas to air pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions is undoubtedly high. While the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has a plan to address these issues, its implementation has been delayed by political interference,” Lukwago said.
Electric Motorbikes: A Beacon of Hope
Amid these challenges, the rise of electric motorbikes offers a promising solution to Kampala’s environmental crisis.
These eco-friendly vehicles, powered by rechargeable batteries instead of petrol, eliminate nearly 100% of greenhouse gas emissions, providing a cleaner and quieter alternative.
“Electric bikes produce zero tailpipe emissions, which is crucial in cities like Kampala, where poor air quality is linked to respiratory diseases. This transition is vital for both public health and environmental sustainability,” said Victor Getenya, Head of Electric Vehicles at Watu Uganda.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes around 7,000 premature deaths annually in Uganda.
Adopting electric mobility could play a transformative role in reducing this grim statistic.
In addition to improving air quality, electric motorbikes address the city’s notorious noise pollution. Unlike petrol-powered motorbikes, electric models operate almost silently, promising a calmer urban environment.
Economic Benefits Driving Adoption
Electric motorbikes now account for about 10% of the boda boda fleet in Kampala, a notable milestone compared to other East African cities.
While they have a higher upfront cost, their long-term economic benefits are substantial.
“Riders save up to UGX 500,000 annually on maintenance costs because electric bikes don’t require oil changes or frequent repairs,” Getenya noted. “Fuel savings range between Shs 10,000 and Shs 20,000 per day, depending on usage.”
To boost accessibility, Watu Uganda has introduced flexible financing options, allowing riders to purchase electric bikes through affordable installments.
“Our financing options empower riders who might not qualify for bank loans to embrace electric mobility. These savings ultimately benefit households and fuel broader economic growth,” Getenya added.
Challenges to Implementation
Despite the clear benefits, implementing KCCA’s broader environmental plans has been hampered by political interference.
Lukwago stressed the importance of prioritizing green mobility solutions to tackle Kampala’s pollution crisis effectively.
“The potential of electric mobility is immense, but we need to act decisively to implement these plans without further delays,” Lukwago emphasized.
A Sustainable Future Within Reach
As Kampala grapples with its environmental challenges, electric motorbikes offer a glimmer of hope for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city. Realizing this vision, however, will require strong political will, public awareness, and unwavering commitment to green mobility solutions.
The journey toward sustainable urban living has begun, but it demands coordinated effort to turn this promise into a lasting reality for Kampala’s residents.
