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Uganda Sets 2027 Deadline for Electric Bus Shift in Kampala

2026-06-04 12:48 SDG
Uganda is taking a major step toward clean mobility following a new directive signed by President Yoweri Museveni. The policy mandates a full shift of public transport systems in Kampala to electric buses by December 2027.

The decision signals a national push toward reducing carbon emissions, cutting fuel dependency, and modernising urban transport infrastructure. The move places Kampala at the centre of Uganda’s broader sustainability and energy transition agenda.

Authorities indicate that the rollout will begin with phased adoption across major transport routes. Public transport operators will be required to gradually replace diesel powered buses with electric alternatives within the stipulated timeline.

The mandate is expected to reshape the transport sector significantly. It introduces new requirements for fleet owners, infrastructure developers, and energy providers who will need to support charging systems and maintenance networks for electric buses.
Urban commuters in Kampala may experience gradual improvements in air quality and reduced noise pollution once the transition gains momentum. However, the shift also raises questions around cost, infrastructure readiness, and the capacity of the power grid to support large scale electric mobility.

Policy analysts note that successful implementation will depend on strong coordination between government agencies, private transport operators, and energy stakeholders. Investment in charging stations and grid expansion will be central to achieving the 2027 target.

The initiative aligns with global trends where cities are accelerating electric mobility adoption to address climate change and urban congestion challenges.