Makerere University launches EV fast-charging hub for disabled staff, students

________________

Makerere University has unveiled an electric fast-charging station aimed at supporting clean mobility and improving transport services for persons with disabilities on campus.

The facility, located at the Senate Building parking lot, was commissioned on March 13, 2026, by Monica Musenero Masanza, Uganda’s science, technology and innovation minister, in partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation. Makerere University said the initiative will support its growing electric vehicle ecosystem and inclusive transport programme.

The project includes a DC fast-charging station installed to power electric vehicles operating on campus, including an electric bus donated by Kiira Motors to facilitate the movement of differently-abled staff and students.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr Musenero said the new facility demonstrates Uganda’s transition from innovation research to real-world deployment of locally developed technologies.

“This commissioning represents a transition from academic exploration into industrial reality,” said Musenero. “We have moved beyond proving that an electric vehicle can be built in Uganda. Today, we are ensuring our vehicles are deployed across the continent to solve Africa’s mobility challenges.”

The minister noted that the project aligns with the government’s national e-mobility strategy aimed at developing a sustainable electric transport ecosystem and expanding green jobs in the country. Uganda has already deployed thousands of electric motorcycles, buses and charging infrastructure as part of this transition.

Vice chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe described the launch as a major milestone for the university’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and inclusive access.

“This initiative is a multi-faceted achievement,” Prof. Nawangwe said. “It strengthens our agenda of inclusivity while positioning Makerere as a leading public institution embracing e-mobility and sustainable technologies.”

He added that the partnership between government, industry and academia would accelerate technological development and provide practical learning opportunities for students in engineering and related fields.

The charging station project was implemented in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation, a state-owned automotive company established in 2014 to spearhead Uganda’s domestic vehicle manufacturing industry and advance the country’s electric mobility ambitions.

University officials said the facility is expected to support more electric vehicles as adoption grows across public institutions.

The launch highlights the growing collaboration between the Government of Uganda, local industry and universities in promoting sustainable transport and home-grown innovation.