Kampala — The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has announced an ambitious plan to reduce traffic congestion in the capital, unveiling proposals for electric buses, expanded rail services, and new rapid transit lines.
Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, KCCA’s Executive Director, detailed the initiatives in response to public queries on social media, highlighting a multi-modal approach to encourage residents to leave private cars at home.
“We plan to introduce electric buses, engagements with local bus service providers are ongoing. The buses will be deployed along major corridors,” Buzeki said.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport Uganda and Uganda Railways Corporation, the city plans to double-track passenger rail services along existing railway corridors.
Additional measures include: MGR (Meter Gauge Railway): Linking Mukono to Bujuuko, BRT (Bus Rapid Transit): Connecting Mukono, Gayaza, and Kajjansi to Kampala and LRT (Light Rail Transit): New routes to Kira, Matugga, Nakisunga, with a circular line along Northern and Southern Bypasses.
Buzeki emphasized that the ultimate goal is to reduce reliance on private cars by promoting walking, cycling, and mass transit.
The plan is part of KCCA’s five-year strategic framework, launched in September 2025, with a projected budget of UGX 11.9 trillion. The strategy aims to cut travel times from 4.2 to 3.0 minutes per kilometre, supported by investments in walking paths, cycling lanes, and e-mobility incentives.
Supporters, including local musician Ykee Benda, have praised the initiative as a demonstration of proactive leadership tackling a long-standing urban challenge.
However, some residents and analysts have expressed caution, questioning the feasibility of the proposed timelines, the funding mechanisms, and practical concerns, such as how commuters will carry large goods without private vehicles.
The plan represents a major step in modernizing Kampala’s transport infrastructure and signals KCCA’s commitment to adopting sustainable, high-capacity transit solutions to ease daily congestion.
