The South African leg of the Made in Uganda Grand Trans-Africa Electric Expedition has successfully concluded, marking one of the most consequential phases of the historic continental journey. This segment of the expedition delivered critical technical validation, unlocked high-value commercial agreements, and strengthened strategic partnerships that position African-built electric mobility for regional scale.

Kayoola E-Coach Proven in South Africa’s Urban and Industrial Corridors

The expedition entered South Africa on 3rd December 2025 via the Tlokweng Border, proceeding through key economic and industrial corridors in Gauteng Province, including Pretoria and Johannesburg. Operating in some of Southern Africa’s busiest urban and logistics environments, the Kayoola E-Coach underwent rigorous real-world testing.

This phase confirmed the vehicle’s efficiency, manoeuvrability, and operational reliability under high-density traffic and industrial conditions, reinforcing Uganda’s growing reputation as a continental hub for advanced manufacturing and electric mobility innovation.

Strategic Engagements Strengthen Regional E-Mobility Collaboration

Throughout the South African leg, the expedition engaged major corporate and institutional stakeholders to advance cooperation in transport electrification and digital infrastructure.

On 4th December 2025, discussions with MTN South Africa focused on enhancing collaboration around digital connectivity, fleet monitoring systems, and the expansion of e-mobility infrastructure. Engagements with the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) explored opportunities in industrial cooperation, urban transport modernization, and the deployment of African-built electric buses across Southern Africa.

Landmark Commercial Deal Signed at the University of Johannesburg

A defining milestone of the South African leg was achieved at the University of Johannesburg, where a landmark agreement for the supply of 450 Kayoola E-Coaches and 75 DC fast chargers was formalized.

This agreement represents Kiira Motors Corporation’s first commercial deal under the African Electric Expedition, signaling a major breakthrough for home-grown electric vehicle manufacturing and accelerating the adoption of African-engineered clean transport solutions.

Cape Town Reception Highlights Continental Significance

The expedition concluded its South African journey in Cape Town, where it received an official welcome from Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister for Science, Technology & Innovation. The achievement was celebrated at a high-level Crown Event attended by diplomatic missions, government officials, and industry leaders.

Symbolic media moments at Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope captured the ambition and continental reach of the expedition, reinforcing its role as both a technological and diplomatic milestone for Africa.

Performance Data Confirms Electric Mobility Viability

By Day 27 (17th December), as the expedition exited South Africa through the Kopfontein Border, the journey had covered 9,143 kilometres, representing 65.67% of total route completion.

Over this distance:

  • 4,098.89 kilograms of CO₂ emissions were avoided
  • 7,452.52 kilowatt-hours of energy were consumed
  • Average energy efficiency stood at 0.82 kWh per kilometre

These metrics underscore the practicality and resilience of African-built electric buses across long distances and demanding operational environments.

Leadership, Government Support, and Strategic Partnerships

The achievements of the South African leg were enabled by the continued support of the Government of Uganda and H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, whose vision for industrialization, technology advancement, and sustainable development remains central to the mission.

Special recognition was extended to Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza and the Office of the President – Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat, whose leadership and policy frameworks made the expedition possible. Uganda’s High Commissions across the region also played a critical role in ensuring seamless cross-border coordination.

Digital Infrastructure and Risk Management Power the Expedition

Beyond vehicle engineering, the expedition relied heavily on robust digital and risk-management partnerships. MTN Uganda, serving as the Digital Solutions Partner, provided end-to-end connectivity that enabled real-time telematics, asset tracking, predictive maintenance, and continuous communication.

Britam Uganda played a strategic role in de-risking the transcontinental operation, ensuring the safety and security of both the expedition team and the Kayoola electric coach throughout the journey.

The People Behind the Mission

At the heart of the expedition is a 50-member multidisciplinary crew, drawn from Kiira Motors Corporation, the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat of Uganda, Made In Uganda, MTN Uganda, Britam Uganda, Swangz Avenue, BUZZ GROUP AFRICA, and the storytellers Brian Mulondo, Martha Kemigisha, Esther Natukunda, and The Mith.

Working extended 16-hour days, the team’s discipline, unity, and resilience embodied the “Made in Uganda” promise, ensuring both technical excellence and compelling storytelling that positioned the expedition as a cultural, diplomatic, and industrial triumph.

Appreciation to South Africa

“As this chapter closes, heartfelt appreciation is extended to the people and institutions of South Africa for their warmth, professionalism, and partnership throughout the expedition’s passage” Kiira Motors stated. 

“The journey continues, carrying forward Africa’s shared ambition for sustainable, locally built electric mobility solutions”, said kiira motors.