Uganda’s electric buses have moved into paid commercial service on three Kira routes, ending a free-ride trial that ran for several weeks.
E-Bus Xpress Kiira Ltd announced that passengers would begin paying fares from Monday, September 7, 2026, on routes connecting Ntinda to Kungu, Nakwero and Sonde.
Fares start at Shs800, depending on the distance, with passengers able to pay through MTN Mobile Money and other cashless options.
The service operates a fleet of 15 Kayoola electric buses manufactured by Kiira Motors Corporation, with five buses assigned to each route. The buses offer air conditioning, Wi-Fi, phone charging and other amenities designed to provide a more comfortable alternative to conventional commuter taxis.
The government has promoted the buses as part of efforts to introduce cleaner and more organised public transport in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
“You tried the buses FREE OF CHARGE over the past few weeks… now it’s time to make them your regular ride,” the Government of Uganda said in a social media post.
“Travel conveniently, safely and in the comfort you deserve. No squeezing, no unnecessary drama, just sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.”
The Kira routes serve rapidly growing residential areas including Naalya, Kyaliwajjala, Namugongo, Najjera, Kira, Kitukutwe, Kisasi and Kyanja.
The buses are part of a wider plan to expand electric public transport in Kampala, where congestion, unreliable schedules and overcrowded taxis remain persistent problems.
Government officials have said the electric-bus programme will be expanded as demand grows.
