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Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | MTN Uganda is expanding cashless payment and internet connectivity services on EBus Xpress as the electric-bus operator adds three new routes serving commuters in Kira Municipality.
The new routes, which started operating on August 28, connect Ntinda to Nakwero through Najjera, Kira, Kitukutwe and Kiwologoma; Ntinda to Sonde through Naalya, Kyaliwajjala and Namugongo; and Ntinda to Kungu through Kisasi and Kyanja.
The expansion increases access to electric public transport in the Kira corridor as Uganda seeks to modernise its urban transport system while promoting cleaner and more sustainable mobility.
Under a partnership involving MTN Uganda, Kiira Motors Corporation and EBus Xpress, commuters can use MTN MoMo to pay for their journeys without carrying cash.
Passengers can purchase and top up EBus Xpress cards by dialing 27280#, while those opting to pay directly through MTN MoMo can use 16522#.
MTN is also providing onboard Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to access the internet, work and remain connected during their journeys.
Senyonga Ibrahim, General Manager of MTN Business Uganda, said the partnership demonstrates how digital solutions and connectivity can improve the commuter experience.
“Through our partnership with EBus Xpress and Kiira Motors Corporation, we are bringing connectivity and digital solutions into the everyday commuter experience.
From convenient access to EBus Xpress transport cards and real-time internet connectivity to track-and-trace technology, MTN is helping create a safer, smarter and more seamless journey for passengers,” he said.
Senyonga said the model could be expanded across Uganda to support a more connected and accessible public transport system.
The new routes build on EBus Xpress services already connecting Ntinda, Nakawa, City Square and Wandegeya, alongside routes serving Jinja and Iganga.
Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, described the expansion into Kira Municipality as a significant step towards modernising public transport.
“The expansion of EBus Xpress operations into Kira Municipality is a significant step in our journey towards modernising public transport,” she said.
Kabanda said the number of Kayoola electric buses operating in Kampala has increased from eight when the service was introduced to 23, reflecting the potential of electric mobility to improve connectivity and reliability while supporting environmental protection, local innovation and job creation.
Jacob Byamukama, Deputy Director of Transport and Roads Management at Kampala Capital City Authority, said collaboration between public and private sector players would be critical to developing a safer and more efficient transport system for Greater Kampala.
“The launch of the EBus Xpress service in Kira Municipality demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration to deliver high-quality, safe and reliable public transport,” he said.
Byamukama said services such as onboard Wi-Fi and real-time information could improve the commuter experience, but added that continued investment in bus stops, depots and other supporting infrastructure would be essential to expanding electric mobility.
The MTN, Kiira Motors and EBus Xpress partnership was unveiled during National Science Week in May, when the electric buses were launched as part of efforts to promote innovation, sustainable mobility and modern public transport.
The latest expansion brings together electric buses, digital payments and connectivity, creating a transport model that allows commuters to pay for travel digitally while remaining connected during their journeys.
For MTN Uganda, the initiative also expands the company’s digital services beyond traditional telecommunications into areas supporting everyday economic activity.
The company said it will continue working with Kiira Motors Corporation and EBus Xpress to expand digital transport solutions and support Uganda’s transition towards smarter and greener mobility.
