Authorities in Uganda have introduced a series of stringent measures to bring order to the boda-boda industry, often criticized for lawlessness and links to criminal activities in Kampala and other towns. The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, announced the new regulations aimed at improving safety and restoring discipline on Ugandan roads.
A key reform requires boda-boda riders in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area to wear uniform reflector jackets containing identifiable details. These jackets will display the rider’s photo, name, contact information, and a QR code, making it easier to track their activities. To enhance organization, the jackets will be color-coded based on divisions: pink for Kampala Central, dark blue for Makindye, and forest green for Nakawa.
The jackets will be synchronized with the registration details of the motorcycles, including their number plates. Additionally, all motorcycle sales will now include two standard helmets—one for the rider and one for the passenger.
“This initiative ensures no motorcycle leaves the assembly plant without two certified helmets. These measures are critical for safety and ensuring accountability in the sector,” the minister said.
The government reached these decisions after consultations with motorcycle assembly companies, dealers, and financiers. Helmet standardization regulations are already in place, with compliance being a mandatory condition for registering motorcycles.
The new rules aim to address long-standing public concerns about boda-boda riders’ refusal to adhere to traffic rules and their alleged involvement in criminal activities. However, the announcement has sparked resistance from some members of the public, who raised hygiene concerns regarding shared helmets, especially in Uganda’s tropical climate.
Despite the resistance, the minister emphasized the necessity of the reforms. “We must bring order to our roads and ensure the safety of all road users. These measures are not optional—they are essential,” said Gen. Wamala.
Boda-bodas, a vital mode of transportation for millions of Ugandans, have become a symbol of both convenience and chaos. With these new regulations, the government hopes to strike a balance between maintaining their economic significance and enforcing discipline in the industry.
