ABSTRACT
This study investigates the impact of multi-modal connectivity on logistics performance for trade in Uganda. Specifically, it examines the influence of road transport, railway transport, and inland waterways on overall logistics efficiency. Despite ongoing infrastructure developments, including the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway and the rehabilitation of the Northern Corridor, Uganda continues to experience major challenges, particularly due to the poor maintenance of secondary and feeder roads. Road transport remains a critical bottleneck, with logistics costs estimated at 25–35% of export value—significantly higher than in other comparable landlocked countries. Inadequate road conditions contribute to frequent accidents, vehicle breakdowns, weak tracking systems, and unreliable delivery schedules. Although digitalization efforts have introduced some improvements, progress is constrained by fragmented systems and weak enforcement. The study targets a population of 469 respondents drawn from Uganda Railways Corporation (URC), the Ministry of Works and Transport, and freight and logistics companies.
BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY
Multi-modal transport involves the use of two or more modes of transportation—such as road, rail, air, or water—within a single journey from origin to destination. This approach enhances efficiency by utilizing each transport mode according to its strengths, thereby improving speed, flexibility, and sustainability within supply chains. A related concept is intermodal transport, where goods remain in a single container throughout the journey, minimizing the need for repeated handling.
Globally, multi-modal connectivity plays a crucial role in improving logistics and trade efficiency. The seamless integration of transport modes reduces transit time, lowers operational costs, and strengthens supply chain resilience. Modern logistics systems increasingly rely on standardized containers, advanced tracking technologies, and specialized infrastructure to facilitate smooth cargo movement across different networks.
Countries with well-developed multi-modal transport systems consistently perform better in global logistics indicators, such as infrastructure quality, shipment reliability, and timeliness. Large-scale initiatives like China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the European Union’s Trans-European Transport Network highlight the economic advantages of integrated transport systems. However, many developing countries continue to struggle with fragmented systems, resulting in high logistics costs, often ranging between 15% and 30% of the value of traded goods.
In Africa, multi-modal connectivity remains relatively underdeveloped despite its significant potential to enhance intra-African trade. The continent’s average Logistics Performance Index (LPI) score remains below the global average, largely due to overdependence on road transport and limited integration with rail and port systems. Research indicates that effective multi-modal systems can reduce transport time by 30–50% and logistics costs by 20–25%. Nevertheless, many transport corridors are still dominated by single modes, leading to congestion and inefficiencies.
As a landlocked country, Uganda relies heavily on the Northern and Central Corridors through Kenya and Tanzania for access to international markets. The overreliance on road transport, coupled with limited integration of rail and inland waterways, contributes to logistics costs exceeding 30% of export value. This reduces trade competitiveness, particularly for agricultural products, and negatively affects small-scale farmers. It is within this context that this study explores the role of multi-modal connectivity in enhancing logistics performance in Uganda.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Uganda’s landlocked position necessitates a well-coordinated and efficient multi-modal transport system to facilitate access to global markets. However, despite ongoing investments in infrastructure such as the Standard Gauge Railway and improvements in inland water transport, logistics performance remains inadequate. Transport costs in Uganda are among the highest in East Africa, accounting for approximately 25–35% of the value of imports and exports. This significantly raises the cost of goods, reduces competitiveness, and limits the participation of small and medium enterprises in regional and international trade.
Existing studies have largely focused on individual transport modes or broader trade facilitation issues, with limited attention given to integrated multi-modal systems. This study therefore aims to address this gap by examining how multi-modal connectivity influences logistics performance for trade in Uganda.
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
- To examine the influence of road transport on logistics performance.
- To assess the impact of railway transport on logistics performance.
- To evaluate the role of inland waterways on logistics performance.
LITERATURE REVIEW (SUMMARY)
Road Transport and Logistics Performance
Road transport dominates Uganda’s logistics system but is characterized by inefficiencies due to poor infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, and high operational costs. A limited proportion of roads are paved, resulting in delays, frequent accidents, and unreliable delivery systems, which ultimately undermine trade competitiveness.
Railway Transport and Logistics Performance
Rail transport is essential for bulk and long-distance cargo due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability. However, in Uganda, its effectiveness is constrained by outdated infrastructure, weak integration with other transport modes, and limited technological adoption. Globally, well-integrated railway systems significantly enhance logistics performance.
Inland Waterways and Logistics Performance
Inland waterways provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for transporting bulk goods. Despite their advantages, they remain underutilized in Uganda and much of Africa. Countries with well-developed inland water transport systems benefit from reduced logistics costs and improved efficiency.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY (SUMMARY)
This study adopts a pragmatic research paradigm, allowing for the use of mixed methods to comprehensively address the research problem. A concurrent parallel design will be employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and document reviews from key stakeholders, including URC, the Ministry of Works and Transport, NEMA, and logistics firms.
A sample size of 221 respondents will be selected using stratified, random, and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical tools such as SPSS, while qualitative data will be analyzed through thematic analysis using NVIVO.
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The study will adhere to established ethical standards, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and protecting participants from harm. Approval will be sought from relevant institutional authorities, and all collected data will be used strictly for academic purposes.
