KAMPALA – Kampala’s notorious traffic congestion and air pollution may soon be a thing of the past, thanks to the growing adoption of electric motorbikes. With an estimated 350,000 traditional motorbikes, or boda bodas, operating in the city, Lord Mayor Eriasi Lukwago acknowledges their significant contribution to air pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions.
However, experts hail electric motorbikes as a game-changer. Victor Getenya, Head of EV at Watu Uganda, notes, “Electric bikes run on rechargeable batteries, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating air pollution. This shift is crucial in addressing climate change and improving urban air quality.”
According to the World Health Organization (2022), air pollution is responsible for approximately 7,000 premature deaths annually in Uganda. Electric motorbikes produce zero tailpipe emissions, tackling this critical issue.
Getenya adds, “Electric bikes operate quietly, reducing noise pollution and creating a calmer atmosphere. Allowing electric bikes to compete with combustion-powered motorbikes will improve air quality, leading to a healthier environment.”
Currently, electric motorbikes account for 10% of Kampala’s boda boda fleet, surpassing neighboring East African countries. Watu Uganda has deployed thousands of electric bikes, enhancing urban mobility.
Affordability remains a concern, but Watu Uganda offers financing options to reduce upfront costs. Getenya explains, “Our financing model enables riders to pay in affordable installments. While electric bikes may be pricier initially, long-term savings are significant – up to UGX 500,000 annually on maintenance costs and UGX 10,000-20,000 daily.”
As adoption grows, Getenya predicts a substantial trickle-down effect: “Each saving made leads to investment, impacting the economy and households.”
Kampala’s electric motorbike revolution promises a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable future.
