KAMPALA, UGANDA – Markh Automobile, in partnership with Honda, has officially launched a state-of-the-art showroom along the Lugogo Bypass, marking a significant milestone in Uganda’s automotive industry.
The event, attended by government officials, business leaders, and local stakeholders, also saw the unveiling of a new, environmentally friendly hybrid motorbike model AC150 and the announcement of plans to establish a motorcycle assembly plant in Uganda.
The ultra-modern showroom will serve as a hub for Honda vehicles and motorbikes, while also showcasing advanced agricultural machinery aimed at transforming Uganda’s agriculture sector from manual to mechanized farming.
Combating Counterfeit Products
Maria Kamoga, Director at Markh Automobile, emphasized the urgent need to fight counterfeit products in the Ugandan market. “Counterfeits are keeping our communities in poverty. People are forced to buy the same low-quality products repeatedly, which hinders economic growth,” she said. “Together with the government, we in the business community must unite to fight counterfeit trade. It’s damaging our economy and making it stagnant.”
She also called for stronger government policies on trade, especially those aimed at protecting consumers and promoting authentic, high-quality products.
Support from Government
State Minister for Trade, Hon. David Bahati, who served as the chief guest, praised the initiative and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local manufacturing. “We are offering tax incentives, including tax holidays for companies like Markh that are investing in assembly plants and green technology,” he said. “The new hybrid bike—powered by both electricity and petrol—is a major step toward green manufacturing in Uganda.”
He added that such initiatives will not only reduce the influx of counterfeit products but also create jobs, promote local innovation, and build wealth across communities.
Transforming Urban Transport
The Minister further revealed that the Ministry of Works and Transport, in collaboration with the Ministry of Kampala, is working on a comprehensive plan to better organize the boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) industry. The move aims to ensure that newer, environmentally friendly bikes replace outdated and unsafe ones on Ugandan roads.
Looking Ahead
Markh’s planned assembly plant is expected to boost Uganda’s local manufacturing capacity, reduce reliance on imports, and improve the availability of genuine Honda products. With an eye on quality, innovation, and sustainability, the project aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 development agenda.
“We celebrate this partnership between Markh and Honda. It is not just the launch of a new product—it is a new era of industrial growth, job creation, and environmental responsibility,” said Minister Bahati.
