In a move to drive sustainable development and the promotion of clean energy, Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) is set to bolster the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s (UCAA) transport fleet with six brand-new Kayoola EV Buses.
This initiative underscores Uganda’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, fostering local industrial growth, and embracing smart, eco-friendly technologies.
The exciting revelation was made today by UCAA Director General, Fred Bamwesigye, as he officially received the first of the six state-of-the-art electric buses, handed over by Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, in the presence of Kiira Motors CEO, Paul Isaac Musasizi, at the UCAA headquarters in Entebbe.
According to Bamwesigye, this collaboration between Kiira Motors and UCAA is a powerful demonstration of the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU), aiming to drive Uganda’s economic transformation by 2040.
“I was happy to receive the first of the six electric Kayoola EVS buses on behalf of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority,” remarked Bamwesigye.
He hailed Kiira Motors for their innovation, emphasising that the buses will play a crucial role in promoting Uganda’s clean energy agenda.
“The Kayoola EVS eliminates diesel dependency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and advances the Authority’s adoption of smart, forward-thinking technology,” he noted.
Strategic Alignment with National Goals
Bamwesigye highlighted the fact that the deployment of these electric buses by UCAA resonates deeply with several key national objectives, some of which include:
Uganda’s Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Target
Uganda is committed to aligning with global sustainability standards. While Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), released in December 2023, sets a target for the energy sector to reach net-zero emissions by 2065, the country actively participates in global efforts, including the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for the aviation industry.
The shift to electric vehicles directly reduces the carbon footprint of ground operations at the airport, contributing to these ambitious climate goals and reducing environmental pollution.
Reduction of Diesel Dependency and Fuel Import Bill
By transitioning away from diesel-powered vehicles, UCAA will contribute to a national effort to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. This not only bolsters energy security but also contributes to a healthier balance of payments, freeing up foreign exchange for other critical development needs.
Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) Policy
This initiative champions local manufacturing and value addition. Kiira Motors, as Uganda’s flagship vehicle manufacturer, embodies the spirit of BUBU as expressed by this gesture.
The production of electric buses showcases Uganda’s burgeoning capacity in advanced manufacturing and serves as a powerful testament to local innovation and industrialisation.
As of December 2024, Uganda had built the capacity to produce up to 10,000 Electric Vehicles annually, with electric buses featuring 21% local content. This project provides a significant demand signal for Uganda’s promising e-mobility ecosystem.
Economic Transformation by 2040
The investment in local manufacturing, technology transfer, and skills development associated with projects like Kiira Motors’ Kayoola buses directly supports Uganda’s long-term vision of economic transformation.
It creates jobs, fosters local expertise, and positions Uganda as a leader in sustainable mobility within the region.
“The shift from diesel-powered vehicles to locally manufactured electric buses reflects Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s strong alignment with Uganda’s Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Target by 2050 and the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) policy that aims to drive Uganda’s economic transformation by 2040,” Bamwesigye reiterated.
This initiative between UCAA and Kiira Motors is more than just a procurement deal; it represents a tangible step towards a cleaner, more prosperous, and technologically advanced Uganda, powered by local ingenuity and a shared vision for a sustainable future.