What started four years ago as a small, informal meetup of car enthusiasts and a handful of auto dealers has since grown into Uganda’s most thrilling and eagerly anticipated motoring event. As the Kampala Auto Show prepares for its fourth edition, it has transformed far beyond a simple exhibition—becoming a vibrant, high-energy festival that celebrates innovation, lifestyle, and the pure love of all things automotive.

This year’s edition, set for July 12th and 13th, 2025, at the Kololo Independence Grounds, is shaping up to be the biggest and boldest edition yet. Organizers say the two-day event will bring together the entire motoring spectrum under one roof, creating an unmatched experience for both industry players and the public.

Since its debut, the Show has become a platform where industry innovators, dealers, financiers, and enthusiasts come together to showcase the latest breakthroughs, forge meaningful connections, and spark conversations about the future of mobility in Uganda.

“The show is basically about celebrating Uganda’s evolving motoring culture, a space where new ideas meet real-world solutions, and where everyone, from families to business owners, can be part of the journey toward cleaner, smarter, and more accessible transportation,” Ssempa explained.

A defining characteristic of the show’s evolution has been its increasing focus on green mobility and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Recognizing Uganda’s burgeoning interest in eco-conscious driving, the Auto Show has become a crucial barometer for the country’s motoring future. It’s a place where discussions around fuel efficiency, EV infrastructure, and sustainable transport are not just theoretical but tangible, with models built for East Africa’s unique conditions taking center stage.

Allen Ssempa, the show’s publicist and Strategic Partnerships Lead, says it has evolved to blend commerce, entertainment, and education. Beyond showcasing vehicles, the Auto Show actively facilitates business interactions, promotes financial solutions for vehicle ownership, and offers educational insights into vehicle maintenance, customization, and emerging auto technologies.

Partnerships have been instrumental in this journey. Major financial institutions like NCBA Bank have stepped in as platinum sponsors, not only providing crucial backing but also integrating their asset financing solutions directly into the show’s offerings. This synergy has made vehicle ownership dreams more accessible to a wider Ugandan populace through flexible loan options and digital payment platforms like Muzuri Pay.

“The Kampala Auto Show is no longer just a local car show, but a festival that brings together a comprehensive array of stakeholders from car dealerships and spare parts suppliers to insurance firms, banks, fintechs, custom car experts, motorsport enthusiasts, and electric mobility pioneers,” he observed.

Its program has diversified to include thrilling activities like test drives, gymkhana and drifting exhibitions, classic car parades, and auto tech showcases, ensuring an engaging experience for all attendees.

What began as a modest gathering of car enthusiasts and a handful of local dealerships has now transformed into one of East Africa’s most anticipated automotive events. The Kampala Auto Show has grown remarkably in scope, participation, and public engagement—cementing its position as a flagship exhibition of innovation, mobility, and lifestyle.

Since its inception, the Auto Show has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings together global car brands, emerging electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, green mobility advocates, tech innovators, financial institutions, and thousands of automotive fans. The annual event now reflects not only the changing face of the automobile industry but also Uganda’s growing appetite for innovation and sustainability.

“Each year, we’ve seen more exhibitors, a broader diversity of vehicles on display—from luxury SUVs and commercial trucks to electric motorcycles—and a much more engaged public,” says one of the show’s longtime organizers. “The transformation has been phenomenal.”

Participation has grown exponentially, with major global and regional brands such as Toyota, Kia, Volkswagen, Nissan, and Hyundai joining a lineup of newer players in electric mobility and auto-tech. The inclusion of ride-hailing platforms, vehicle financing providers like NCBA Bank Uganda, and insurance firms has also expanded the show’s ecosystem beyond car sales, making it a one-stop hub for mobility solutions.

At its heart, the Auto Show remains a people-first event. Interactive experiences, such as test drives, tech demos, car-care clinics, and family-friendly attractions, have helped build a loyal following among attendees. Digital platforms have further amplified its reach, allowing livestreamed launches, influencer takeovers, and online contests to draw even larger virtual audiences.

“The level of public engagement we’re seeing now—especially among youth and first-time car buyers—proves that the show has grown beyond an industry event. It’s now a national stage for dialogue on mobility, technology, and the future of transport,” notes an industry analyst.

Looking ahead, the future of the Kampala Auto Show is even more ambitious. Organizers are eyeing regional expansion, with plans to host rotating editions in other cities across Uganda and possibly link up with sister expos in Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Sustainability is also high on the agenda, with future shows expected to place greater emphasis on electric vehicles, green tech, and eco-conscious mobility solutions.

“We’re not just showcasing cars—we’re mapping the future of how Ugandans move,” says a spokesperson from the planning committee. “The show is a mirror of the times. And with the rise of electric mobility and smart technologies, we’re just getting started.”

As Uganda continues to modernize its transport infrastructure and embrace cleaner, smarter mobility options, the Kampala Auto Show is set to remain a powerful driver of awareness, access, and aspiration in the automotive space. What began as a small motoring event has grown into a national movement—where roads meet innovation, and the future is always on display.

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About NCBA Bank Uganda

NCBA Bank Uganda Limited is a subsidiary of NCBA Group PLC, East Africa’s third-largest bank with an asset base of UGX 960 Billion and a strong liquidity profile. Formed from NIC and CBA Banks in 2020, NCBA combines extensive corporate and retail banking experience with leading innovations, offering products from mobile banking, asset finance to tailored investment solutions. Focused on relationship management and customer success, NCBA empowers clients to achieve financial goals while supporting regional economic growth.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Edgar Tusiime

Head, Marketing, Communications & Citizenship

Email: Edgar.Tusiime@ncbagroup.com |Website: https://ncbagroup.com/ug