Boda-boda riders in Rwimi Town Council, Bunyangabu District, have been given a one-week deadline to obtain digital identity cards and reflector jackets or face arrest, as authorities move to tighten regulation of the transport sector, enhance security, and improve road safety in the growing urban centre.
The directive, issued by local leaders, is part of a wider effort to address rising insecurity concerns, unregulated operations, and indiscipline within the boda-boda industry, which has expanded rapidly in Rwimi due to increasing demand for affordable and fast transport services.
Authorities say the rollout of digital identification will help curb motorcycle theft, improve accountability, and reduce cases of criminal activity allegedly linked to some riders, including robbery and aiding criminal escapes.
Officials also believe the system will make it easier to track and verify all operators within the town council.
Speaking during the launch of the initiative, the Rwimi Town Council Physical Planner, Yosia Kule, said compliance was essential for restoring order and strengthening security.
“We are introducing digital identification to ensure that every boda-boda rider can be easily identified and held accountable. This will help us improve security and restore order within the sector,” Kule said.
He also urged riders to maintain hygiene and presentable standards, saying professionalism would help improve public confidence in the industry.
“Cleanliness is key when dealing with the public. Riders must maintain personal hygiene and keep their motorcycles clean to attract and retain customers,” he added.
Boda-boda leaders in Rwimi welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely, particularly in improving coordination and response during emergencies.
Rwimi Boda-Boda Riders Chairperson, Abasi Busobozi, said the system would enhance safety and organisation within the sector.
“With digital IDs, it becomes easier to identify riders in case of emergencies or incidents. This will also help us as leaders to manage our members better,” Busobozi noted.
However, some riders expressed concern over the one-week deadline, saying it may be difficult to comply due to financial limitations and the costs involved in meeting the new requirements.
Tumusiime Godwin, one of the riders, appealed for more time to allow members to adjust.
“The idea is good, but the time given is too short. Some of us are still struggling financially, and getting all the requirements within a week is not easy,” he said.
Despite these concerns, authorities maintained that the deadline remains unchanged, warning that enforcement will begin immediately after the grace period expires. Leaders urged all riders to comply to avoid penalties.
The initiative marks a major step toward formalising boda-boda operations in Rwimi Town Council as leaders attempt to balance economic livelihoods with improved public safety, order, and accountability in the transport sector.
