Kampala's electric buses struggle to attract passengers despite lower fares and comfort

Kampala’s new electric bus service, E-Bus Xpress, launched with enthusiasm and promises of a greener, more efficient public transport system. However, nearly a month after their May 3rd debut, the initial fleet of eight 32-seater buses is failing to attract a significant number of passengers on its pilot route connecting Ntinda, Nakawa, Wandegeya, and Bukoto.

Commuters continue to overlook the e-buses, despite assurances of punctual departures and more affordable fares compared to traditional taxis. The buses, featuring amenities like free Wi-Fi and priority seating for vulnerable passengers, have garnered curious glances but little consistent patronage. This low uptake is a puzzle, especially considering Kampala’s notorious traffic congestion, which officials estimate costs the city Shs 800 million daily in lost productivity and fuel.

Several factors are contributing to the sluggish adoption. A significant issue appears to be poor service marketing, leaving many potential passengers, particularly women who may not follow traditional news outlets, unaware of the service’s existence. Furthermore, the mandated cashless payment system poses a barrier for a large segment of the population who primarily carry physical cash due to depleted mobile money balances from loan repayments and other financial obligations.

Critics have questioned the government’s strategy, suggesting the deployment of buses on poorly maintained, congested roads might be premature. Unlike in Kigali, where dedicated bus lanes facilitate timely travel, Kampala’s infrastructure challenges remain. Proponents, however, argue that the comfort and productivity features of the e-buses, allowing passengers to work en route, mitigate the impact of delays and represent a necessary first step towards modernizing the city’s transport.

Long-term plans include deploying 1,500 electric buses nationwide by 2030, a venture requiring substantial investment in charging infrastructure. While the service has seen success in Jinja, where traffic is less severe and cashless payments are more established, its integration into the chaotic Kampala system is proving more challenging, with a need for broader stakeholder collaboration and potential road infrastructure improvements.