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“This is a part of the broader plan that we have, to take out the petrol bodabodas, because as you know we have to preserve our environment,” Kisaka said.
“We have the e-mobility industry coming up rapidly, we already have many electric bikes on the road and we think that this is the way to go.”
Efforts to Streamline the Bodaboda Industry
Over the past few years, KCCA has implemented several measures to regulate and streamline the bodaboda sector in Kampala. In 2022, the authority initiated a comprehensive registration and training program for bodaboda riders. This initiative aimed to formalize the operations within the industry, reduce road accidents, and eliminate illegal operators. The Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, stressed the need for a structured approach, allowing only 7,000 of the estimated 30,000 bodabodas to operate within the Central Business District. This move was intended to manage the high traffic and enhance safety for both riders and passengers.
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Additionally, KCCA established new leadership to oversee the bodaboda operators across Kampala's five divisions. The interim leadership, chosen through a consensus process, is tasked with organizing and professionalizing the industry. This includes sensitization campaigns, the allocation of designated stages, and the enforcement of regulations concerning driving permits and vehicle registration.
The Rise of the E-Mobility Industry
The transition to electric motorcycles is part of Uganda's broader strategy to embrace green technology and reduce carbon emissions. The country has witnessed a significant surge in e-mobility solutions, with several companies introducing electric motorcycles. Notably, companies like Zembo, GoGo, and Spiro have been at the forefront of this transformation.
Zembo, established in 2018, focuses on assembling and distributing electric motorcycles, offering a pay-as-you-go battery swap model. The company, supported by investments from various partners, aims to expand its fleet and charging infrastructure across Kampala. Similarly, GoGo has ambitious plans to increase its number of electric vehicles and establish the largest lithium-ion battery pack factory in East Africa by 2024.
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Moreover, Spiro recently announced a program allowing riders to trade in their conventional motorcycles for electric models at no cost. This initiative aligns with Uganda's commitment to adopting clean energy policies and improving air quality.
KCCA's Green Initiatives
KCCA's commitment to green initiatives is further evidenced by the launch of electric motorbike charging stations, such as the one inaugurated in February 2024 at the Lubaga Division Office. This facility, established in partnership with the European Union, underscores KCCA's dedication to promoting low-carbon energy systems and fostering sustainable urban development.