By Our Reporter
The first car brought to Uganda was a 1906 Albion, imported by Sir Hesketh Bell, who served as the Governor of the Uganda Protectorate at the time. His decision to bring the vehicle was driven by the need to improve mobility and reduce the reliance on human labor for transporting goods and people. Before the car’s arrival, colonial administrators and traders depended heavily on porters who carried loads over long distances, which was both time-consuming and exhausting.
The Albion was not only used for official government duties but also provided limited public transport services. On certain days, it operated as a passenger vehicle, ferrying people between Entebbe and Kampala. The car significantly reduced travel time between these two towns. A journey that previously took six days on foot was now completed in just seven hours—a revolutionary improvement at the time.
The car was acquired for approximately £475, a substantial amount in the early 1900s, reflecting its value and the significance of its introduction to the region. As one of the very first automobiles in East Africa, it became a symbol of modernization and progress.
Passengers who wished to travel on the Albion had to pay a fare. A one-way trip from Entebbe to Kampala cost Rs5, while a return journey was Rs8. The car was also used for cargo transportation, with charges set at Rs15 per tonne of goods. This meant the vehicle not only served the governor’s personal needs but also provided essential services to the growing urban population.
The Albion was equipped with a 16-horsepower engine, making it powerful for its time. It was designed to carry both passengers and cargo, making it a versatile and highly valuable asset. Impressed by the efficiency and impact of the vehicle, Sir Hesketh Bell later arranged for more cars to be brought into the protectorate.
The introduction of the first car in Uganda was not merely about luxury; it was a clear demonstration of how technology could improve efficiency and transform society. Today, Uganda has made significant advancements in the automotive industry, with Kiira Motors leading the way in producing locally manufactured vehicles, a development that traces its roots to the country’s first car in 1908.
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