Uganda Unveils First Government-Installed EV Charging Station at Amber House
Kampala has taken a major step towards sustainable transportation with the launch of Uganda’s first government-installed electric vehicle (EV) charging station at Amber House.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote green energy.
Officiating the launch, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, emphasized that this pilot EV charging station is a critical investment in low-carbon energy solutions.
She acknowledged the two key barriers to EV adoption in Uganda, access to electricity and affordability of charging infrastructure.
“This station underscores our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and driving Uganda towards a more sustainable future,” she stated.
The new facility is equipped with both battery-swapping technology and Level 3 fast charging, making it a significant step in building Uganda’s EV infrastructure.
The Minister also announced plans to establish ten more EV charging stations within the Kampala Metropolitan area under the National Development Plan IV, which aims to enhance efficiency in the transport sector.
The launch event saw participation from key industry stakeholders, including Mr. Bruce Mucunguzi, Deputy Country Director of Spiro Uganda, and Mr. Steven Jeremy Ntambi, Managing Director of Altec.
Mucunguzi, noted Spiro Uganda’s expansion across ten countries and its achievement of deploying 22,000 electric motorcycles in just three years. “Our target is to roll out 50,000 battery-powered motorcycles by the end of 2025,” he added.
Ntambi emphasized the importance of collaboration in scaling EV infrastructure. “With all key players involved, this installation is just the beginning. We are ready to innovate and meet the growing demand,” he said.
The Minister, however ,recognized Uganda’s three pioneer e-mobility companies, the Zembo Electric SMC Ltd, Bodawerk (now Gogo), and Kiira Motors Corporation for paving the way for the country’s electric transport sector.
The launch’s theme, “Drive Electric, Drive into the Future,” highlights the government’s commitment to making electric vehicles a mainstream and sustainable mode of transport. With Uganda’s transport sector accounting for 8% of total energy consumption, and global transport-related CO₂ emissions on the rise, the shift to EVs is critical.
Among the benefits of EV adoption highlighted at the event by Hon. Nankabirwa, were the lower energy costs, EVs consume less energy per kilometer compared to fuel-powered vehicles. The reduced maintenance expenses , Unlike traditional cars, EVs require minimal servicing. Charging convenience , EV users can charge their vehicles at home, shopping centers, or public stations and the environmental benefits , EVs contribute to significantly lower emissions.
With the government and private sector working together to expand EV infrastructure, Uganda is positioning itself as a leader in green mobility in East Africa.
