Watu Launches Safety Training School to Educate Boda-Boda Riders

Police reports show motorcycles are involved in nearly 45% of road traffic accidents in Uganda, underscoring the urgent need for structured rider training programs.
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In response, Watu Uganda, a leading asset financing company, has launched Watu Shule, a motorcycle safety and training school in Kampala.
This pioneering initiative aims to improve road safety and provide boda-boda riders with the skills needed to navigate Uganda's busy roads safely.
Watu Shule, the first institution of its kind in Uganda, offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines both theoretical instruction and practical training.
The programme covers essential topics such as motorcycle operation, traffic regulations, defensive riding, and safety practices.
The school’s approach is designed to equip riders with the knowledge necessary to reduce road risks and improve road safety across the country.

During the launch event, Christian Kamukama, the Head of Commercial at Watu Uganda, explained that the school seeks to close the skills gap within the boda-boda sector.
“We’re confident that this initiative will empower many Ugandans, improve road safety, and support economic growth,” Kamukama said.
He highlighted that the program not only trains riders but also provides them with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.
Michael Kamoga, the Road Safety Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, also expressed his support for the initiative, noting its potential to address long-standing safety challenges within the boda-boda sector.
"For years, we have been working to reduce the impact of drugs and alcohol abuse on our roads. With Watu Shule, we hope to sensitize riders and instill discipline," Kamoga remarked.
He also emphasized the importance of formal training, saying, "Until now, there was no formal institution for training riders in Uganda. We fully support this initiative and are committed to working with Watu Uganda to improve road safety."
Watu Shule stands out for its structured program, which focuses on safety, professionalism, and regulatory compliance. The school not only teaches riders essential skills but also supports them throughout the licensing process, ensuring that they graduate as qualified professionals.
Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the Traffic and Road Safety Directorate, praised the initiative, stating, “This school will strengthen road safety in Kampala by providing quality motorcycle training. On average, 5 riders die every day due to reckless driving. This school is a vital step in reducing fatalities on our roads.”
According to data from the Uganda Police Force, motorcycle accidents have risen by nearly 10% over the past decade. In 2023, more than 3,000 fatalities were reported from road traffic incidents, with motorcycles responsible for nearly 45% of these deaths.
The boda-boda sector, which employs over 2 million riders, faces ongoing challenges related to safety, training, and compliance with regulations.
Watu Shule aims to address these issues by offering affordable, structured training, encouraging safer riding practices, and helping riders obtain necessary licenses.
Eng. Irene Namuyiga, a road safety engineer at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), emphasized the importance of incorporating electric motorcycles into the training program.
“As we move towards more sustainable transport, it is crucial that new riders are trained on both traditional and electric motorcycles. E-mobility has the potential to reduce air pollution and ease traffic congestion in Kampala. I encourage Watu Shule to include this in their curriculum to ensure that future riders are equipped for both the present and the future of transportation,” Namuyiga said.
As part of its broader mission, Watu Uganda plans to expand Watu Shule across Uganda, setting new standards for road safety and professionalism in the boda-boda sector.
Through this initiative, Watu Uganda aims to contribute to both road safety and the development of a skilled, responsible workforce in Uganda’s transport sector.