Uganda Tackles Financing Barriers to Accelerate Electric Mobility
Uganda's battery-swapping network for electric motorcycles has expanded rapidly to over 350 stations by late 2025. A World Bank study highlights that while the demand is manageable, scaling the infrastructure inclusively will require grid investments, affordable finance, and smart charging solutions.
Why it matters
Highlights how developing nations are pioneering electric mobility solutions tailored to informal transport economies, offering potential models for green transitions in the Global South.
Uganda’s battery-swapping network grew from about 150 stations in mid-2024 to more than 350 by late 2025.
A World Bank study finds electric vehicle demand remains manageable, but smart charging, grid investment, affordable finance, clear regulation, and coordinated urban planning are essential to scale electric mobility inclusively
Across Kampala, battery swapping is transforming the daily routine of electric boda-boda riders.
In minutes, a spent battery is out, a charged one is in, and the rider is gone. No waiting. No fuel queue.
Uganda had approximately 150 battery swapping stations in mid-2024.
That number has more than doubled, surpassing 350 nationwide by late 2025.
Each station puts more electric motorcycles on the road but also adds a new electricity load. Which raises a pressing question: is the grid ready?
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