In a bold move towards a sustainable future, the Ugandan government has unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize the country’s transportation sector by installing 10,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the nation. This initiative, outlined in the National e-Mobility Strategy, aims to position Uganda as a leader in the e-mobility revolution, transforming it from a consumer of EV technology to a net source.
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The Vision for Uganda’s EV Future
By 2040, the government envisions a Uganda where EV mobility is the norm, with public transportation and motorcycles fully transitioned to electric power by 2030, and passenger vehicle sales following suit by 2040. This ambitious goal is not just about environmental sustainability; it’s about economic growth and job creation. The government projects that the e-mobility sector could contribute 12.5% to the GDP and generate over 500,000 green jobs by 2040.
The government is committed to investing $1.74 billion (Shs6.4 trillion) over the next five years to implement this strategy. This investment is expected to yield significant returns, with an estimated $15 million (Shs55.3 trillion) in annual revenues, including income from job creation and reduced transport-based emissions. The strategy also emphasizes the importance of localizing the e-mobility value chain, aiming to manufacture 65% of e-mobility components domestically.
Challenges and Solutions
While the vision is ambitious, challenges remain. The high cost of establishing charging infrastructure and the need for increased electricity generation are among the hurdles to overcome. Currently, the cost of installing a slow charger is around $2,500 (Shs9.2 million), while a fast charger costs approximately $35,800 (Shs132.2 million). However, the government is actively working with the private sector, including fuel station operators like Total Energies, to accelerate the deployment of charging stations.
The National e-Mobility Strategy marks a turning point for Uganda’s transportation sector. By embracing electric vehicles and investing in charging infrastructure, the country is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also creating a more sustainable and economically vibrant future. The strategy’s focus on local manufacturing and job creation further solidifies its potential to transform Uganda into a regional leader in e-mobility.
