President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commissioned Spiro electric motorcycles today at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. The Spiro delegation was led by Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, Chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID).
Spiro, formerly known as M Auto Electric, is a leading electric bike company in Africa, noted for its contributions to sustainable transportation. The company has deployed over 15,000 electric bikes and facilitated more than 9 million battery swaps across Benin, Togo, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
President Museveni praised Spiro’s technology, stating, “This is good news. The electric bikes are better than our traditional ones which require diesel.” He emphasized Uganda’s commitment to adopting environmentally friendly alternatives.
Ms. Rosa Malango, Chairperson of the Tumaini Africa Knowledge Centre (TAKC), informed the President that 500 electric bikes are already operational in Kampala, with 150 sold in the first week. To make the bikes accessible for boda boda riders, an installment payment plan has been introduced.
“The price of an electric bike is $1,000, significantly cheaper than traditional diesel-powered bodas, which cost $1,480—about 30% cheaper,” she said. Ms. Malango also highlighted advantages such as tubeless tires, eliminating the need for air pumping, and a battery range of approximately 80 kilometers with convenient charging stations across Kampala. She assured the President that Ugandans have welcomed the new technology and are quickly adapting to it.
“Your Excellency, each bike and battery is equipped with a GPS tracker and a specific identification number, enhancing security and enabling efficient tracking in case of accidents or crimes,” she added. Ms. Malango also noted the affordability and convenience of battery swap stations, where riders can exchange depleted batteries for charged ones.
Spiro country head, Mr. Gaurav Anand, announced plans to partner with the Ugandan government to deploy over 140,000 electric two-wheelers and 3,000 charge-and-swap stations across the country by 2028. He mentioned that Spiro expects to have about 35 battery swapping stations in Kampala by the end of the year and is set to revolutionize Uganda’s transportation landscape.
“The company also plans to launch electric tuk-tuks next year, further expanding its impact,” he noted. “We are pleased to bring the latest technology and products to the country. Each bike is equipped with a GPS tracker, allowing us to work with enforcement agencies to enhance security. We look forward to continued cooperation with the Ugandan government in various sectors, including the cotton industry and beef value-addition.”
Mr. Anand also expressed the company’s interest in establishing a textile factory in Northern Uganda, specifically in Lira District. “This factory will focus on ginning, weaving, knitting, and spinning cotton, contributing to Uganda’s industrial development,” he said.
The event was attended by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, and the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr. Ramathan Ggoobi.
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