Leaders of Uganda’s boda boda sector are urging the government to restart the Electronic Penalty System (EPS), following a rise in traffic accidents, particularly those involving motorcycles.
Speaking for the Kampala Boda Boda Association, General Secretary Asuman Ambrose Muhindo Kyibanzanga said recent tragedies highlighted the urgent need for road discipline.
“The tragic bus crash on Gulu Road, which claimed many innocent lives, shocked the nation. Likewise, the Rukiga tragedy, where lives were lost in a road incident that could have been prevented, left families grieving,” he said.
“These tragedies tell us one clear truth: our country needs more discipline on the roads.”
According to Uganda Police Force statistics, the country records over 20,000 road crashes annually, leading to more than 4,000 deaths.
Motorcycles account for nearly half of all fatal crashes, with speeding, reckless overtaking, and red-light violations among the leading causes.
Kyibanzanga noted that many boda boda riders now feel less safe, citing increasing disregard for traffic rules.
“The discipline on the road has really decreased. The number of crashes has increased. People are now crossing traffic lights as if they don’t see them. Over-speeding is now the order of the day,” he said.
Boda bodas are central to urban transport, especially in Kampala, providing employment to young people and transporting workers, students, traders, patients, and families.
Kyibanzanga stressed that riders must also take responsibility for road safety.
“As a secretary in the boda boda industry, I am requesting that the smart enforcement should start again. This will decrease the road crashes,” he said.
He urged riders to respect traffic rules and lead by example while calling on the government to ensure that the EPS is implemented fairly and transparently.
“Discipline is not meant to punish; it is meant to protect life. When implemented properly, smart enforcement is not against boda boda riders. It is a tool to promote discipline and fairness for all road users,” he said.
The EPS uses cameras and digital monitoring to detect traffic violations automatically, including speeding and red-light offences, issuing penalties to offenders. Authorities say it reduces human discretion, curbs corruption, and ensures uniform enforcement.
Kyibanzanga emphasized that enforcement must go hand in hand with education and sensitization.
“The goal should be not fear or conflict, but safer roads,” he said.
