General Christopher Damulira, the head of Crime Intelligence at the Uganda Police Force, has called on boda boda riders across the country to avoid acts of violence and political chaos, particularly during the ongoing election season.
Speaking in Kawempe Division while handing over motorcycles worth Shs100 million to riders, Gen Damulira emphasized that the government is committed to providing viable alternatives to criminal activity for the youth, including through income-generating initiatives such as the boda boda business.
“Do not allow politicians to use you for violence that destabilizes the nation, especially during this election period,” he warned, stressing that the safety and stability of communities should take precedence over partisan interests.
He noted that while the boda boda sector was previously associated with unruly behaviour, leadership and structured support through SACCOs have transformed it into a legitimate and profitable enterprise.
“This business is meant to empower you, not to turn you into instruments of chaos,” he added.
The General also called on riders to respect road safety regulations, including obeying traffic lights, wearing reflective jackets, and avoiding practices such as carrying more than one passenger.
He stressed that adherence to these rules would reduce accidents and improve the public perception of boda boda riders.
“No one will be spared for engaging in criminality. Anyone arrested will face the law, even if they belong to SACCOs under our leadership,” he emphasized.
Boda boda riders from various parts of Kawempe assured Gen. Damulira that they had largely stayed clear of the recent unrest that occurred during National Unity Platform presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s visit to the area.
Frank Mawejje, national chairperson of boda boda riders, used the occasion to highlight economic challenges within the sector, particularly the high costs of motorcycle spare parts despite suppliers selling them cheaply.
“We ask government to reduce taxes so that spare parts dealers can lower their prices. Riders are really suffering,” Mawejje said.
The motorcycles handed over to Sacco-registered riders in Kawempe are part of a wider government initiative aimed at providing sustainable livelihoods for the youth and turning them away from criminal activities.
According to Gen Damulira, empowering young people economically not only improves their lives but also strengthens community security and political stability during sensitive periods such as elections.
“The government is providing opportunities; it is your responsibility to use them wisely and avoid engaging in acts that could put your lives and the community at risk,” he said.