Thursday, October 2, 2025

President Museveni Commissions Kiira Vehicle Plant As KMC Delivers Electric Buses For Makerere University, Dar es Salaam City

 President Yoweri Museveni has commissioned the multi -billion Kiira Vehicle Plant (KVP) in Jinja. The Plant is operated by Uganda’s mobility industry flagship- Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC).

Company officials said that the Kiira Vehicle Plant is a continental landmark, the largest, most competent and most advanced bus manufacturing facility in Africa.

“This facility demonstrates our commitment to building a self-sustaining economy. We are not only going to assemble vehicles here but also gradually integrate local content, ensuring that Ugandans are at the forefront of automotive innovation,” he said.

“ Uganda’s economy is currently growing at 7% and is expected to exceed 10% once our oil production begins. We have a clear vision for what will transform our society.

We also plan to process our rich iron ore reserves into high-quality steel, which will significantly reduce our dependence on steel imports that currently cost over $900 million annually. Uganda is fortunate to have some of the best iron ore in the world, located in Kabale and Butogota,” President Museveni told a cheering audience at the colourful event. He also used the occasion to hand over electric buses for Makerere university and Tanzania’s capital city Dar es Salaam.

Cabinet ministers, members of parliament, diplomats, business leaders and local leaders attended the event, praising the initiative as a bold step toward positioning Uganda as a regional automotive hub.

Dr. Monica Musenero- Masanza the Minister of STI  assured the President of her team’s commitment to fully implement his  2021 directive to grow Uganda’s economy based on the firm foundation of  science and technology.

“Your Excellency, this plant is a cornerstone of your vision. More innovations will be unveiled during your next term as part of our commitment to transform the economy.  “We have been making buses, but today we are unveiling for the whole world to see what we have built here. We are saying to the world: here we are, Africa here we are, ” she stated.

The CEO of Kiira Motors Corporation ,Mr. Paul Isaac Musasizi, said the Kiira vehicle Plant will help to reduce ‘haemorrhage’ of an annual vehicle import bill now standing at  over $800 million while creating more than 14,000 jobs across the automotive value chain.

“We are champions of local value addition, with a target to have 65% of our vehicle parts locally produced by 2030. We are already sourcing materials like Auto Paints, Workshop Supplies like LPG, Wielding Gas, Adhesives, Foam, etc from local suppliers, while also developing local capacity for components such as seats, glass, and ultimately EV battery,” Musasizi stated .

“ The plant is central to KMC’s strategy to enhance supply chain resilience and drive local industrial growth. Over and above vehicle production, KMC is shaping the future of transport through modern mobility terminals, smart bus stops, and Africa’s first rural EV charging stations in Butebo and Iganga,” he added.

The  Manufacturing Process at the Kiira Vehicle Plant

The plant has a comprehensive, end-to-end manufacturing process that includes a Body Shop for frame and body production, a Paint Shop for corrosion protection and decoration, a Chassis Systems Shop for the integration of vital systems (Steering, Brake, Suspension & Pwertrain), a Trim and Assembly Shop, and finally, a Quality Inspection and Testing Shop with a dedicated test track.

“We are champions of local value addition, with a target to have 65% of our vehicle parts locally produced by 2030. We are already sourcing materials like Auto Paints, Workshop Supplies like LPG, Wielding Gas, Adhesives, Foam, etc from local suppliers, while also developing local capacity for components such as seats, glass, and ultimately EV battery,” KMC officials explained

About KMC products 

KMC officials said the company’s product  design philosophy is- to deliver a comprehensive mobility solution that addresses the unique challenges of Uganda’s and Africa’s Road Infrastructure, while exceeding customer expectations.

“ Our vehicles are meticulously engineered products with advanced features that meet and exceed international standards for comfort, safety, and environmental stewardship.

We have integrated unparalleled features to ensure a total premium experience, including WIFI, advanced HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, and ECAS (Electronically Controlled Air Suspension) for a smoother ride on the backdrop of international regulations for Survival Space Protection in light of a Crash or Rollover.

 We go further by including a refrigerator, panoramic windows, three-point seat belts, and reclining seats with arm and footrests to ensure a truly premium and secure journey. Critically, we have integrated support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), making our buses accessible and inclusive for every Ugandan,” they explained.

About Kiira Motors Corporation

Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) is Uganda’s flagship Mobility Innovation and Industrialization Enterprise, leading the nation’s transition to sustainable mobility and inclusive industrial growth. With a bold vision to build a Regional Mobility Ecosystem, KMC is shaping an industry, a movement, and a legacy that positions Uganda as a net source of mobility solutions in the multi-trillion-dollar global mobility market.

KMC’s mission is anchored on Four Strategic Pillars: People, Product, Plant, and Mobility Infrastructure, underpinned by Policy, Standards, and Regulation. This integrated approach aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, NDP IV, and the National e-Mobility Strategy, while advancing the SDGs and Africa’s STISA 2024 priorities. It also complements the KCCA Transport Master Plan, driving clean, efficient urban mobility.

Editor;msserwanga@gmail.com

President Museveni Set To Commission The Kiira Vehicle Plant Tomorrow

 President Yoweri Museveni will tomorrow officially  commission the multi -billion Kiira Vehicle Plant (KVP) in Jinja. The Plant is operated by Uganda’s mobility industry flagship- Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC).

Company officials said that the Kiira Vehicle Plant is a continental landmark, the largest, most competent and most advanced bus manufacturing facility in Africa.

The  Manufacturing Process at the Kiira Vehicle Plant

The plant has a comprehensive, end-to-end manufacturing process that includes a Body Shop for frame and body production, a Paint Shop for corrosion protection and decoration, a Chassis Systems Shop for the integration of vital systems (Steering, Brake, Suspension & Pwertrain), a Trim and Assembly Shop, and finally, a Quality Inspection and Testing Shop with a dedicated test track.

“We are champions of local value addition, with a target to have 65% of our vehicle parts locally produced by 2030. We are already sourcing materials like Auto Paints, Workshop Supplies like LPG, Wielding Gas, Adhesives, Foam, etc from local suppliers, while also developing local capacity for components such as seats, glass, and ultimately EV battery,” KMC officials explained .

According to KMC Executives ,value addition along the mobility industry value chain , is a strategic move to create backward and forward linkages, reviving Jinja as the Industrial Powerhouse of Uganda with an Industrial Ecosystem positioning Uganda as a Net Source of Mobility Solutions while generating over 14,000 jobs, and reducing our national import bill.

“ The plant is central to KMC’s strategy to enhance supply chain resilience and drive local industrial growth. Over and above vehicle production, KMC is shaping the future of transport through modern mobility terminals, smart bus stops, and Africa’s first rural EV charging stations in Butebo and Iganga,” they added.

About KMC products  

KMC officials said the company’s product  design philosophy is- to deliver a comprehensive mobility solution that addresses the unique challenges of Uganda’s and Africa’s Road Infrastructure, while exceeding customer expectations.

“ Our vehicles are meticulously engineered products with advanced features that meet and exceed international standards for comfort, safety, and environmental stewardship.

We have integrated unparalleled features to ensure a total premium experience, including WIFI, advanced HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, and ECAS (Electronically Controlled Air Suspension) for a smoother ride on the backdrop of international regulations for Survival Space Protection in light of a Crash or Rollover.

 We go further by including a refrigerator, panoramic windows, three-point seat belts, and reclining seats with arm and footrests to ensure a truly premium and secure journey. Critically, we have integrated support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), making our buses accessible and inclusive for every Ugandan,” they explained.

About Kiira Motors Corporation

Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) is Uganda’s flagship Mobility Innovation and Industrialization Enterprise, leading the nation’s transition to sustainable mobility and inclusive industrial growth. With a bold vision to build a Regional Mobility Ecosystem, KMC is shaping an industry, a movement, and a legacy that positions Uganda as a net source of mobility solutions in the multi-trillion-dollar global mobility market.

KMC’s mission is anchored on Four Strategic Pillars: People, Product, Plant, and Mobility Infrastructure, underpinned by Policy, Standards, and Regulation. This integrated approach aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, NDP IV, and the National e-Mobility Strategy, while advancing the SDGs and Africa’s STISA 2024 priorities. It also complements the KCCA Transport Master Plan, driving clean, efficient urban mobility.

Editor;msserwanga@gmail.com

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

STI Minister Dr. Musenero Launches The National E- Mobility Expo Set For September 18-19 At The Kiira Vehicle Plant

Ugandans are invited to attend this open two day national event where over 80 e-mobility players will showcase their unique E-mobility solutions and products made for the African terrain

By Moses Sserwanga

Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC,) Uganda’s mobility industry flagship has launched the second edition of the National E-Mobility Expo 2025, to be held on 18th – 19th September 2025 at the Kiira Vehicle Plant (KVP) in Jinja.

The two day Expo considered to be one of the biggest annual events on the African continent- is   aimed at advancing Uganda’s transition to sustainable mobility, green industrialization, and technological transformation. The Expo will be held  under the theme: “Powering Innovation, Accelerating Industrialization, and Shaping Africa’s Green Future.”

At the  launch event, held at the Next Media Park in Kampala , the chief guest  Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, noted that the Expo is a proclamation of Uganda’s bold commitment to sustainable innovation, climate resilience, and inclusive growth.

“It is here that we showcase our transformative journey, from promise to impact in the economy, as we elevate homegrown solutions and position Uganda at the forefront of Africa’s green mobility movement,” she told  the well attended event graced by local and international stakeholders from government, industry, academia and the diplomatic community.

Dr. Musenero said that government’s  goal was to  position Uganda as a Net-Source rather than a consumer of E-Mobility Solutions in Africa .

“In order to build a robust, self-sustaining, and competitive E-Mobility ecosystem in Uganda, we are ensuring the following: a strong and well-coordinated E-Mobility Ecosystem. This ecosystem that is over 80-member strong is under the coordination of the Mobility Bureau, at the STI Secretariat and has over the past few years developed into a strong force with a shared voice and purpose,” she stated .

In a determined effort to position Uganda as a continental leader in the provision of e-mobility solutions ,Dr. Musenero said that government was also developing  the requisite Infrastructure to facilitate the country’s  E- mobility agenda by setting up manufacturing facilities like the Kiira Vehicle Plant, shared facilities for product development like the Deep Tech Center of Excellence, and a robust charging network across the country.


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CEO of Next Media Services, Mr. Kin Kalisa greets STI Minister Dr. Monica Musenero at the launch of the KMC National E-Mobility Expo 2025, to be held on 18th – 19th September 2025 at the Kiira Vehicle Plant (KVP) in Jinja.

The minister further revealed that Uganda has set an ambitious target to attract investments worth over USD 1 Billion in E-mobility  by 2030.

“We are already 16% towards that target with USD 160 Million invested as of 2024, and USD 800M already in commitment over the next 5 years,” she added.

Development of the human capital required across the entire value chain from manufacturing to operations is another strategic intervention being undertaken with the government setting  up the Engineering Development and Innovation Center that will further skill engineers -the way LDC does to lawyers. “We are training our engineers for manufacturing using the factory model such that we build the critical mass of human capital to support our industries,” Musenero emphasised .

A jovial Kiira Motors CEO , Mr. Paul Isaac Musasizi said that the second edition of the National E-Mobility Expo 2025, was  a spirited affirmation of Uganda’s resolve to pioneer a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive tomorrow.

“It marks a profound shift from passive aspiration to active transformation. Here, we are not change fans and analysts, we are engineering it, scaling it, and living it. This is the heartbeat of a nation on the move,’ he said.

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Musasizi said that what has set Uganda’s e-mobility journey apart was its unique value proposition. “Our electric vehicles are tailored for local terrain, local needs, and local economies. They offer affordability without compromise, efficiency without pollution, and mobility without dependency.

For our customers, this means lower transport costs, cleaner air, and greater reliability. For entrepreneurs, it means new business models, franchise opportunities, and access to fiscal space that was previously out of reach. The Kayoola EVS buses, for example, are moving people while unlocking enterprise value, enabling operators to reinvest in service quality, expand routes, and create jobs.”

The writer is a media and comms consultant and advocate of the High Court of Uganda

The Success story of the E-Bus Xpress pilot in Jinja city

The E-Bus Xpress pilot in Jinja, Musasizi said was a shining example of what happens when government, industry, and community unite.

“It’s a blueprint for inclusive development, demonstrating how e-mobility can decarbonize cities, empower local talent, and drive economic transformation.

This expo is a convergence of visionaries. It is where policy meets product, where ideas meet infrastructure, and where Uganda’s green industrialization agenda finds its heartbeat,” he added.

According to the E-Mobility Outlook Report 2024, which was presented by Mr. Allan Muhumuza Team Leader Mobility Science, Technology & Innovation Secretariat – Office of the President, Uganda has mobilized over $160 million in investment, built capacity to produce 10,000 electric vehicles annually, and established more than 160 charging and swapping stations nationwide.

“The transition of mobility to Electric Mobility specifically presents an opportunity for Uganda to leap-frog in the automotive manufacturing with competitive indigenous technology fit-for-market within Africa’s unique environment,” Muhumuza stated .

Key partners for the National E-Mobility Expo 2025

Expo is supported by  key partners who include Kiira Motors Corporation, E-Bus Xpress, the Government Citizens Interaction Centre, and the Presidential CEO Forum among others.

Editor:msserwanga@gmail.com


Thursday, July 17, 2025

Bank of Uganda To Issue New Guidelines To Mitigate Climate Related Financial Risks In The Banking Sector

By Moses Ssserwanga 

The Bank of Uganda is developing the Climate Risk Guidelines which will be issued soon to  provide clear direction on identifying, managing, and disclosing climate-related financial risks within the banking sector , BoU Governor Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, has said.

Governor Atingi-Ego said the Central Bank is also  developing climate stress testing tools in collaboration with the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) to assess the resilience of financial institutions under various climate scenarios.

The new guidelines will be in tandem with the Bank of Uganda Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) 2024 framework which guide Supervised Financial Institutions (SFIs) to integrate environment, social, and governance principles into their  governance, risk management, and reporting.

 It draws from global best practices, including the GRI and ICMA Bond Principles, while being tailored to the East African context.

“ In partnership with MoFPED and other stakeholders, we are developing a taxonomy to define eligible green activities, reduce greenwashing, and enhance transparency in climate finance,” Atingi-Ego stated adding that together with the Uganda Bankers Association (UBA) and the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS), the Central Bank is building capacity in green finance product development, risk assessment, data governance, and reporting.

Atingi-Ego was giving a key note address at the just concluded first  National Private Sector Engagement Forum on Climate Finance ( NaPSEF 1) held at Serena Hotel, Kampala.

The Governor called upon the banking sector to integrate climate considerations into their  business models- noting that it  is not only  a regulatory burden—it is a strategic imperative. “It presents a unique opportunity to align profitability with sustainability”.

“We encourage financial institutions to define the scope of their Sustainable Finance Frameworks (SFFs) in line with national sustainability goals. Develop exclusion lists to mitigate environmental and social risks and engage third-party reviewers for independent ESG assurance to enhance data reliability and transparency,” he stressed.

“I urge all public and private sector actors to collaborate more closely, invest more boldly, and plan more sustainably. ESG integration is not a distant goal—it is expected to become mainstream in Uganda within the next 2 to 5 years, he added .

Mr. Denis Mugaga, the Head of the Climate Finance Unit ,  told the well attended  forum that government of Uganda created a Climate Finance Unit in the Minsitry of Finance ,Planing and Economic Development  (MoFPED )to lead on the coordination of climate and green finance mobilization, expenditure and tracking.

“The work of the Climate Finance Unit commenced in March 2023 with the support of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and now with the European Union through the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI),” Mugaga said.

Mugaga revealed that the ministry has et up a National Green Taxonomy (NGT) 2025 to provide a clear criteria for classifying green projects. It aims at supporting the private sector to channel capital into investments that contribute to carbon reduction, climate resilience.

“ We have guidelines for mainstreaming climate actions in the financial sector 2024 which  provide financial institutions in Uganda with clear and practical steps on how climate action can be mainstreamed into their operations. This is in addition to the launch of the Uganda Carbon Markets Regulations & Fiscal Framework 2025  to support Uganda’s readiness to participate in carbon markets & guide fiscal requirements thereof,” he added .

Mr. Jim Mugunga , the Director Private Public Partnerships (PPP) at the Minsitry of Finance , underscored the importance of PPPs in primarily addressing infrastructure and service deficits.

By leveraging private sector capital, expertise and efficiencies, Mugunga argued , government is positioning itself to attract private capital to supplement its annual expenditure on infrastructure and services now at the tune of  Ug.Shs. 13.8 Trillion which amount is insufficient.

“ There is a need for alternative financing sources. PPPs advance the case for climate action by unlocking private capital,” Mugunga added.

Email ;msserwanga@gmail.com