Uganda’s public transport is taking a major green leap forward. On 28th August 2026, E-Bus Xpress Kiira Ltd (EBX), in partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation, officially began deploying 15 locally manufactured Kayoola Electric Buses on three new feeder routes serving Kira Municipality and the wider Kampala metropolitan area.
These zero-emission, air-conditioned buses offer scheduled services, onboard Wi-Fi, modern safety features and fully cashless payments.
Adult fares start from UGX 800 and student fares from UGX 400 (depending on distance). No cash is accepted onboard.
The three key corridors are:
- Ntinda – Najjera – Kira – Kitukutwe – Kiwologoma – Nakwero
- Ntinda – Naalya – Kyaliwajjala – Namugongo – Sonde
- Ntinda – Kisasi – Kyanja – Kungu
This rollout marks another important step in Uganda’s transition to smart, sustainable and locally developed public transportation, turning investment in science, technology and innovation into practical solutions for urban mobility.
Main Payment Methods for Regular Passengers for the Kayoola Express Buses
Passengers primarily pay using mobile money:
MTN MoMo:
- Dial *165*22# and follow the prompts to buy a ticket, use Merchant Code 594434.
Airtel Money:
- Dial *185*9# and follow the prompts to buy a ticket, use Merchant Code 594434, use Merchant Code 4405648
After successful payment, you receive a QR code or SMS code. Show this to the conductor or scanner when boarding.
Smart Card Option
An E-Bus Xpress card (sometimes linked to systems like weGo/KaCyber) is also available.
- You can get the card on the bus or at MTN service centres.
- Load funds onto it (usually via mobile money).
- Then tap the card to pay.
Student Payments
Students use smart digital wristbands under the School Cashless Days Campaign.
Parents can load money onto the wristband directly from MTN or Airtel mobile money accounts via USSD codes. Students then tap the wristband to pay.
Additional Notes for Travellers
The system is powered in partnership with MTN Uganda (and previously involved partners like KaCyber/Sparklab for cards and student solutions).
For the most up-to-date codes or assistance, check the official E-Bus Xpress website www.ebusxpress.com, their social channels, or contact their customer care.
Fares on the Kira routes start from UGX 800 for adults and UGX 400 for students (distance-dependent) once paid service begins.
Highlighted Tourist Attraction: Namugongo Martyrs Shrine
One of the most significant stops for travellers is Namugongo, home to the Uganda Martyrs Catholic Basilica and the Anglican Martyrs Shrine.
This peaceful site commemorates the 19th-century Christian martyrs and draws pilgrims and tourists year-round.
Visitors can walk the Uganda Martyrs’ Trail in Namugongo with its bronze reliefs, explore the museum, visit Martyrs’ Lake, and reflect in the beautiful grounds.
Entry is free, and the area feels far removed from Kampala’s bustle. The new electric bus route via Naalya and Kyaliwajjala makes reaching Namugongo cleaner, more comfortable and more predictable than traditional taxis or matatus.
Other accessible areas along the routes include the growing residential and commercial zones of Kira, Najjera and Ntinda.
Ntinda itself is a convenient hub and home to cultural experiences such as performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre located in Ntinda.
Trips and Activities You Can Do
Namugongo Day Trip: Board a Kayoola bus from Ntinda toward Namugongo. Spend the morning exploring the shrines and trails, then enjoy local food nearby before returning. Ideal for cultural and spiritual travellers.
Eco-Friendly Suburb Exploration: Use the buses to hop between Najjera, Kira and surrounding areas, combining public transport with short walks or boda connections to markets, local eateries and community spots.
Sustainable City Circuit: Start in Ntinda, ride the electric bus toward Namugongo or Kira, then connect onward to central Kampala attractions. Pair it with an evening cultural show at Ndere.
Photography & Local Life: Capture the modern green-and-white Kayoola buses against Kampala’s evolving skyline and experience everyday Ugandan commuting in comfort with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
You can also book the following tours with us at Responsible Tourism Company;
For accommodation in Kampala chek out our Kampala hotels for a vast number of options from budget, mid-range to luxury accommodation in Kampala.
These routes make it easier for visitors to move around without relying solely on private vehicles, reducing their carbon footprint while supporting Uganda’s homegrown electric mobility industry.
Transport Tips for Travellers
The buses operate on fixed schedules with five vehicles per route. Payment is cashless only, prepare mobile money or the accepted digital methods in advance. Look for the distinctive white-and-green Kayoola / EBUS XPRESS branding.
Ntinda serves as a major connection point. Services are designed to be more reliable and safer than many informal options currently operating in Greater Kampala.
Ready to experience Kampala the responsible way?
Let Responsible Tourism Company Ltddesign your eco-conscious itinerary. We specialise in low-impact travel that supports local communities and Uganda’s green transport innovations.
Book a guided Namugongo pilgrimage or sustainable Kampala day trip that incorporates the new Kayoola electric buses, cultural experiences and responsible practices.
Contact us today to plan your carbon-conscious adventure and travel with purpose.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new Kayoola electric bus routes in Kampala?
The three routes run from Ntinda to areas including Kira, Namugongo (via Naalya and Kyaliwajjala), and Kungu (via Kisasi and Kyanja).
How much do the Kayoola buses cost?
Adult fares start from UGX 800 and student fares from UGX 400, depending on distance. Payment is cashless only.
Can tourists easily reach Namugongo Martyrs Shrine by electric bus?
Yes. The Ntinda – Naalya – Kyaliwajjala – Namugongo – Sonde route provides a convenient, comfortable and sustainable option to this major attraction.
Are the buses comfortable for visitors?
Yes. They feature air conditioning, onboard Wi-Fi, modern safety systems and scheduled services, making them a pleasant alternative for travellers.
How does this support sustainable tourism in Uganda?
The locally built zero-emission Kayoola buses reduce pollution, showcase Ugandan engineering, and encourage travellers to use public transport instead of private vehicles.
Should I book a guided tour?
For a seamless experience that maximises cultural insight and supports local communities, contact Responsible Tourism Company Ltd to arrange a tailored, responsible itinerary.
This launch is more than improved commuting, it is innovation moving from the factory floor to the streets.
Hop on a Kayoola electric bus and discover a greener way to explore Kampala and its surroundings.