Uganda seeks Czech expertise to transform railway system

_______________

Uganda has taken a significant step towards modernising its railway infrastructure by engaging ŠKODA Group, one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of public transport vehicles.

The move signals a strategic effort by the Ugandan government to modernise its transport systems and stimulate economic growth through improved connectivity.

Ambassador Danny Ssozi, representing the Uganda Embassy in Berlin, led the delegation that visited ŠKODA’s headquarters in Plzeň, Czech Republic, where both parties held a high-level discussion with Henrik Orrling, Vice President of Business Development at ŠKODA Group.

The meeting marked the first direct engagement between the two parties in over a year and was made possible with the support of Radek Jakubský, Vice President of the Czech Chamber of Commerce in Prague.

Present at the discussions were key figures, including Ing. Vlastimil Vaclavik, Government Relations Director; Antonio Alamar Galan, Business Development Director; Jessica Namuddu; Mutebi Ronald; and Kian Klauss, a consultant.

Discussions also highlighted the possibility of establishing local maintenance and training facilities in Uganda. (Courtesy)

ŠKODA Transportation, based in Plzeň, is renowned for its engineering excellence and commitment to sustainable mobility. The company specialises in the manufacture of electric locomotives, coaches, metro trains, trams, and trolleybuses.

Its expertise in rail systems development aligns well with Uganda’s ambition to build a more modern, safe, and efficient railway network.

During the engagement, the Ugandan Embassy delegation held constructive talks with the ŠKODA team on possible areas of collaboration, specifically targeting the rehabilitation and modernisation of Uganda’s outdated railway infrastructure.

“Uganda is seeking strategic international partnerships to enhance its transport capacity, and we see great potential in working with the ŠKODA Group,” said Amb. Ssozi. “This visit has laid the foundation for a long-term collaboration that could significantly improve the efficiency of rail transport in our country.”

ŠKODA Group expressed readiness to cooperate, offering a broad range of railway solutions that meet the latest international safety and comfort standards. Both parties agreed to proceed with negotiations after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will formalise the framework for future cooperation.

Ambassador Ssozi extended an invitation to ŠKODA’s international delegation to visit Uganda and assess the country’s current railway systems. This on-ground evaluation is expected to inform a tailored proposal addressing Uganda’s specific needs and potential for development.

“We are committed to supporting Uganda in transforming its railway infrastructure,” said Henrik Orrling. “ŠKODA has the experience, technology, and expertise to provide innovative and sustainable solutions. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Uganda and contribute to the country’s economic advancement.”

Ambassador Danny Ssozi, representing the Uganda Embassy in Berlin, led the delegation that visited ŠKODA’s headquarters in Plzeň, Czech Republic. (Courtesy)

Discussions also highlighted the possibility of establishing local maintenance and training facilities in Uganda. Such developments would not only support the railway systems but also create employment opportunities and build local technical capacity.

After the meeting, the Ugandan delegation toured ŠKODA’s production lines and state of-the-art manufacturing facilities. The guided tour provided a glimpse into the company’s technological capabilities and its commitment to environmentally conscious transport solutions.

The Ugandan delegation touring ŠKODA’s production lines and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. (Courtesy)

(Courtesy)

“This visit is not just about infrastructure; it is about fostering industrial partnerships and mutual growth,” said Radek Jakubský. “Uganda and the Czech Republic share a common interest in sustainable development, and transport is at the heart of that vision.”

The partnership is seen as part of Uganda’s broader strategy to boost trade, attract foreign investment, and ease the movement of goods and people. With many of Uganda’s railway lines in need of urgent refurbishment, the collaboration with ŠKODA could become a game-changer in the country’s journey towards industrialisation and regional integration.

As negotiations move forward, stakeholders on both sides are optimistic about the potential impact of this partnership.

“This is a promising beginning,” Amb. Ssozi concluded. “We look forward to welcoming the ŠKODA team to Uganda and to building a future where our railways reflect the ambitions of a modern and forward-looking nation.”

The discussions between Uganda and ŠKODA Group mark a promising development in East Africa’s rail revival and reaffirm Uganda’s commitment to global partnerships that drive progress.

Uganda's railway sector is seeing significant developments with plans for expansion, modernisation, and increased capacity. Recent news includes the upcoming start of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) construction, the resumption of passenger train services after refurbishment, and the procurement of 100 new locomotives and wagons.