Zembo Uganda and Tugende Partner to Accelerate Electric Motorcycle Adoption Across Uganda

Zembo Uganda, the nation’s pioneering electric motorcycle company, has announced a landmark partnership with Tugende Limited, a for-profit social enterprise that uses asset finance, technology, and a customer-centric model to help informal sector entrepreneurs (MSMEs) grow their economic potential.

Under the agreement, Zembo becomes Tugende’s official electric motorcycle partner, dramatically expanding access to affordable, zero-emission transport for boda boda riders across urban and peri-urban centers in Uganda.

This collaboration goes beyond swapping fuel for batteries. It’s a joint effort to tackle high operating costs and environmental challenges, empowering the boda community—the backbone of Uganda’s economy—to earn and save more for their families.

Together, the two companies plan to finance and deploy hundreds of Zembo electric bikes in the coming months. Riders will benefit from Tugende’s flexible financing plans and value-added services, combined with Zembo’s reliable battery-swap network, ensuring maximum time on the road with significantly lower operating costs.

“We have witnessed the dedication and daily hustle of the boda community, and they deserve tools that deliver real returns,” said James Obarowski, CEO of Zembo. “This partnership with Tugende is pivotal. They understand asset financing better than anyone, and we understand electric bikes. Riders are already excited—they can save up to 40% on operating costs while increasing their daily take-home. That’s how we help them ride smarter and earn bigger.”

For Tugende, this alliance signals a bold entry into sustainable mobility, building on over 13 years of supporting more than 80,000 entrepreneurs and their families. By integrating Zembo’s electric bikes into its portfolio, Tugende strengthens its role in Uganda’s e-mobility transition—fully aligned with the nation’s clean transport goals.

“Electric mobility is not a trend; it is the future our riders need,” said Patrick Asiimwe, Country Manager for Tugende Uganda. “We’ve financed entrepreneurial dreams for years, and now we’re helping them access pioneering, proven electric assets through Zembo.”

Michael Wilkerson, Tugende’s CEO, added: “Teaming up with Zembo allows us to offer practical packages—low upfront costs, quick approvals, and reliable bikes. This is a clear win for riders’ finances, air quality, and the communities we serve.”

Deployment begins immediately in Kampala, with expansion planned for Masaka, Jinja, and Entebbe, and a nationwide rollout expected by mid-2026. Early operators are already taking advantage of the partnership’s benefits—Tugende’s accessible loans paired with Zembo’s locally assembled battery cabinets, the first of their kind in Africa.

Founded in 2018, Zembo has deployed over 1,000 electric bikes and built a robust battery-swap network, cutting emissions and boosting rider incomes. Tugende, founded in 2012, operates in Uganda and Kenya, redefining asset financing through tech-enabled leasing, training, and value-added services such as Uganda’s first medical cover for boda riders.

About Zembo Uganda
Zembo is transforming transport in Uganda with affordable electric motorcycles and a reliable battery-swap network. Since 2018, the company has focused on providing sustainable rides that increase rider income and reduce air pollution. Learn more at www.zem.bo

About Tugende
Tugende is East Africa’s leading motorcycle and MSME financing institution, empowering entrepreneurs with smart loans, digital credit histories, insurance, and training. Tugende is committed to building thriving livelihoods—one reliable asset at a time.