KAMPALA — Uganda took a major step towards embracing electric mobility on Wednesday, launching its first public electric vehicle charging station in the capital Kampala.
The charging station, inaugurated by Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, is part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.
“This charging station is a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable transportation sector,” Ssentamu said at the launch ceremony. “We are committed to creating an enabling environment for the adoption of electric vehicles in Uganda.”
The charging station, which has both swapping and Level 3 fast charging capabilities, is expected to serve as a model for future charging stations across the country. The government plans to set up 10 more charging stations in Kampala, with plans to expand to other major towns.
Uganda’s transport sector is a significant contributor to the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for around eight percent of total energy consumption. By promoting the use of electric vehicles, the government hopes to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
The launch of the charging station was attended by officials from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the German International Cooperation (GIZ), which provided technical and financial support for the project.
Uganda’s move to promote electric mobility is part of a broader trend in Africa, where several countries are investing in electric vehicle infrastructure and incentivizing the adoption of electric vehicles.
As the country continues to develop its electric vehicle ecosystem, the government is optimistic that the benefits will extend beyond environmental sustainability. “We expect the adoption of electric vehicles to create new economic opportunities, improve air quality in urban areas, and enhance the overall quality of life for Ugandans,” Ssentamu said.
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