Africa-Press – Uganda. In a significant move underscoring its commitment to transforming Uganda’s commercial transport sector, Spiro, a part of the Equitane Group recently hosted an International Leadership Retreat in Dubai.
The high-profile event celebrated the first anniversary of the United Boda-Boda Riders Cooperative Union, marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s largest commercial transport segment and highlighting the remarkable strides made in electric mobility and rider empowerment.
The two-day retreat from the 31st of January to the 1st of February 2026 brought together influential thought leaders, innovators, sector champions, and Spiro riders, with discussions centred on the future of electric vehicles, climate-friendly mobility solutions, and technology-driven socio-economic transformation across Africa, with a particular focus on Uganda’s burgeoning electric boda-boda ecosystem.
Mr. Gagan Gupta, the chairman of the board of directors at Spiro, emphasized the company’s long-term vision for sustainable transport. “Our partnership with UNION reflects a deep commitment to building solutions that balance environmental responsibility with economic inclusion in Uganda,” he stated.
He further highlighted Uganda’s emergence as a crucial market in leading electric mobility, effectively reducing emissions and enhancing the livelihoods of commercial riders.
Echoing this sentiment, Spiro Chief Executive Officer Kaushik Burman articulated the broader impact of the Spiro-Union partnership.
“Today, we stand at a pivotal moment where innovation meets purpose. Our work in Uganda and across Africa is not just about electric vehicles; it is about creating dignified opportunities, cleaner cities, and a future where technology empowers communities,” Burman remarked, highlighting the holistic approach to development.
Bruce Mucunguzi, Deputy Country Head for Spiro Uganda, detailed the tangible progress achieved through the partnership over the past year.
Key milestones include the widespread deployment of electric motorcycles across Uganda, the establishment of robust battery-swap stations and service centres and the introduction of rider-centric financing models through partners like Union.
Fred Ssenoga, the managing director of the United Boda-Boda Riders Cooperative Union, reflected on the union’s rapid growth and impact.
“What began one year ago as a bold idea to professionalize Uganda’s boda-boda sector has already transformed into something greater. Today, Union is more than a name; it is a growing platform born from a simple belief that the ordinary Ugandan deserves better and a promise of improved livelihoods for Uganda’s largest sector.” Ssenoga passionately stated.
The Union has rolled out several empowering products for its members, notably the Rider Union App, designed to enhance safety and transparency for both riders and passengers.
Through the app, riders earn a 7% commission and receive a free helmet and reflector after completing 10 rides.
Beyond motorcycle financing, Union also facilitates phone financing and, in partnership with Housing Finance Bank, now offers land loans further solidifying its commitment to improving its members’ financial well-being.
To date, the Boda union has successfully deployed over 16,000 Spiro Electric bikes across Uganda, over 300 swap stations, and over 1,000 service centres across the country.
This initiative not only aims to improve livelihoods but also significantly advance clean transport and foster a more sustainable, EV-driven economy.
