Questions have emerged online after Makerere University acquired a 41-seater bus valued at Shs500 million from Uganda’s state-owned automotive manufacturer Kiira Motors Corporation.
The new bus was delivered this week to the university’s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), which announced its arrival on Monday while sharing photos of the vehicle painted in Makerere’s colours.
“It’s finally here!! This afternoon CEDAT received a brand new 41 seater Bus valued at UGX 500 million, a product of Kiira Motors,” the college said in a statement.
The bus was officially received by CEDAT Principal Prof. Moses Musinguzi from Tonny Seruyange, the transport officer at Makerere’s Directorate of Estates and Works.
While many welcomed the development as a boost for Uganda’s local manufacturing industry, others questioned the Shs500 million price tag, arguing that a locally produced bus should cost less.
Several social media users compared the cost with imported buses and expressed surprise at the figure.
“A 40 seater at 500 million? Naye what is wrong with this country?” wrote one commenter.
Another user argued that importing buses might be cheaper if the price remains high.
However, some commentators defended the price, noting that Uganda’s domestic automotive industry is still in its early development phase, where production volumes are relatively low and costs remain high.
Historical Link Between Makerere and Kiira Motors
Kiira Motors has deep roots at Makerere University. The idea for the Kiira electric vehicle was first developed more than 15 years ago by students and professors at CEDAT, before eventually evolving into the state-owned automotive company.
Today, Kiira Motors is jointly owned by the Government of Uganda and Makerere University, and aims to build a local vehicle manufacturing industry to reduce reliance on imported vehicles.
Price Comparisons
Industry data shows that the price of a new 40-seater coach globally can range from approximately Shs230 million to more than Shs600 million, depending on specifications, technology, and brand.
Some high-end coaches can even exceed Shs1 billion, especially those equipped with modern safety systems, luxury interiors, or electric powertrains.
In Uganda, even smaller imported commuter vehicles such as Toyota Hiace coasters can cost over Shs200 million, sometimes even when purchased used.
Expanding Client Base
Kiira Motors has already supplied buses to several institutions, including the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
The company’s Kayoola buses have also been delivered to Tondeka Metro Bus Service as part of plans to establish a modern mass transit system in Kampala. Some of the vehicles have also been used for airport shuttle services and government demonstrations of electric mobility.
Despite the online debate, supporters argue that purchasing locally manufactured vehicles helps strengthen Uganda’s industrial base, create jobs, and promote technological innovation.
As Kiira Motors scales up production at its manufacturing plant, analysts say vehicle prices could gradually reduce with higher production volumes and expanded market demand.
