Micheal Oketayol, the Officer in charge of Traffic in Rukungiri district, revealed that 95% of the riders in the district operate without license. He further noted that 90% of boda boda riders lack Third-party insurance and that, approximately 50% of them ride without helmets.
“Moreover, most of these riders are unfamiliar with road signs and markings, putting themselves and others at a risk,” he expressed.
Addressing the issue of road accidents in the district, Oketayol said, many are a result of hit and run incidents. To curb this dangerous behavior, he urged all boda boda riders to obtain proper driving licenses by following the due process.
The traffic boss warned against carrying more than two passengers. He announced an operation targeting riders without reflective jackets, helmets, license, and those carrying more than one passenger.
In Kigezi Region, some boda boda riders attributed the problem to alcoholism, drug addiction, and the high cost of driving permits. They called on the government to reduce the license fees to make it more accessible to riders, which could potentially lead to more responsible behavior on the roads.
“The situation demands collaborative efforts between the government, traffic authorities, and boda boda riders to improve road safety. Obtaining proper licenses, adhering to traffic regulations, and promoting responsible riding practices are essential steps in reducing accidents and protecting both riders and passengers,” one of the riders expressed.
Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson said there have been 457 accidents across the country within one week, resulting in 79 fatalities and 338 injuries. This highlights the seriousness of the road safety issue, and its demand for immediate attention from all stakeholders.
The Minister of State for Transport, Fred Byabakama, expressed concern that 95% of boda-boda riders in Kampala are taking unnecessary risks, leading to the high number of fatalities and injuries.
This comes at a time when some of Boda boda stages have been banned in Kampala. Following a directive from security minister Jim Muhwezi, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) minister Minsa Kabanda said boda boda stages have been banned at banks, embassies, parliamentary Avenue, Apollo Kaggwa road, Colville Street, Nile Avenue, office of the president among others.
The move was justified on security grounds as Minister Muhwezi noted that Boda bodas are “a security threat which has to be addressed before it gets out of hand.” Kabanda noted that the evicted Boda boda riders will be relocated to over 100 gazetted stages within and outside Kampala.
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