Airtel partners with Spiro to roll out electric motorcycles in distribution network

Airtel Uganda has partnered with electric mobility firm Spiro to introduce electric motorcycles into its distribution network, in a move aimed at cutting emissions, reducing costs and improving efficiency in last-mile delivery.

The initiative will see Airtel Franchise Partners transition from fuel-powered motorcycles to electric alternatives as the telecom giant strengthens its commitment to environmentally sustainable operations.

The partnership was officially launched with the rollout of the first 268 Spiro electric motorcycles, part of more than 1,000 units already ordered by Airtel Uganda.

Under the arrangement, franchise partners will be able to acquire the motorcycles through an interest-free financing model, with payments spread over 24 months and deducted from their monthly commissions.

Speaking at the launch, Japhet Aritho, Managing Director of Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited, said the move reflects the company’s broader strategy of combining business growth with environmental responsibility.

“As Airtel continues to grow, so does our responsibility to ensure that our products and services reach customers faster, more efficiently and in an environmentally friendly manner,” Aritho said.

“Our Franchise Partners are the backbone of our distribution network, and by making electric motorcycles more accessible, we are helping them become more productive, reduce operating costs, and together protect our environment.”

Franchise partners play a central role in Airtel’s ecosystem, handling distribution of SIM cards, Airtel Money float and other services to customers across the country.

Through the new partnership, they are expected to benefit from lower fuel and maintenance costs, GPS-enabled motorcycles, reliable after-sales service and access to Spiro’s growing battery swap network.

Spiro Uganda Country Director Brenden Kachenje said the partnership highlights the growing role of electric mobility in corporate operations.

“This collaboration reinforces our commitment to champion a greener, cleaner environment and lead Uganda’s e-mobility agenda,” he said.

Kachenje added that Spiro plans to deploy 50,000 electric motorcycles in Uganda by December 2026, signalling a major shift toward sustainable transport solutions.

The initiative also supports Airtel Uganda’s wider sustainability agenda by reducing carbon emissions associated with last-mile logistics, while enhancing the efficiency of its distribution network.

Industry analysts say such partnerships—combining digital services with clean mobility—are likely to play a key role in shaping the future of business operations in Uganda, particularly as companies seek to balance growth with environmental responsibility.

The rollout will be implemented in phases, with plans to extend the programme to all Airtel Franchise Partners nationwide.

The post Airtel partners with Spiro to roll out electric motorcycles in distribution network appeared first on Daily Star.