Jumia Expands E-Commerce Reach Beyond Uganda’s Major Cities

KAMPALA, July 10, 2026 - Online shopping is gradually expanding beyond Uganda’s major urban centres as digital platforms invest in logistics networks, local partnerships and technology-driven delivery solutions to reach more communities across the country. For years, customers outside Kampala and other large municipalities faced challenges accessing e-commerce services due to long delivery times, high transport costs and limited logistics infrastructure. The expansion of pick-up stations and improved delivery networks is now helping bridge the gap, allowing customers in districts such as Moroto, Kapchorwa, Arua, Gulu and Kabale to access products through online marketplaces. The company said the focus is on ensuring customers receive consistent service regardless of their location, with reliability becoming a key priority in areas where road conditions, distance and weather can affect last-mile delivery. Rather than relying only on home deliveries, the platform has adopted a hybrid logistics model combining urban deliveries with strategically placed collection points in other regions. The system allows customers to collect parcels from nearby locations, reducing transport costs and improving efficiency in areas where direct delivery may be difficult. Local entrepreneurs have also become part of the expansion strategy by operating community-based pick-up stations. These partnerships provide easier access points for customers while helping businesses grow alongside the digital commerce sector. Technology has played a major role in improving operations, with route optimisation systems helping reduce transport costs, improve vehicle utilisation and streamline delivery networks. The company said operational decisions, including where to establish new collection points, are guided by customer demand and logistics data to improve efficiency. As e-commerce adoption grows, maintaining customer confidence remains a major focus, with service reliability, successful deliveries and efficient returns systems considered essential to building trust among new online shoppers. Future plans include exploring electric vehicles for urban deliveries as part of efforts to reduce operational costs and improve environmental sustainability. With continued investment in logistics, technology and local partnerships, digital commerce is expected to become increasingly accessible to consumers beyond Uganda’s traditional urban markets.