Digital number plate project goes silent

The government's ambitious plan to equip all vehicles with digital number plate to fight crime faces a critical juncture.

With the July 1 deadline fast approaching, concerns are mounting that the project may be headed for another delay, raising questions about its viability altogether.

Politicians have baptized it another failed government project since it skipped due diligence.

However, Works and Transport minister Edward Katumba Wamala dismisses the claims saying they are on track.

This is not the first time the deadline has been missed. The programme was originally supposed to be rolled out by February 1st, 2024, but it was extended to July 1.

In light of this delay, politicians have called on the government to provide an update on the program's status, fearing it may become another failed government project.

Abdullah Kiwanuka, formerly the shadow minister of internal affairs, has expressed his continued opposition to the project. He argues that the slow progress is unsurprising, considering the lack of proper due diligence before approval.

Kiwanuka claims the government failed to conduct a thorough evaluation, and is now appealing for them to revisit the drawing board.

Mubarak Munyagwa, a former legislator for Kawempe South, shares Kiwanuka's pessimism. He doubts the project's overall benefit to Ugandans, citing examples of similar poorly planned initiatives that have failed to deliver on their promises.

The government launched a digital number plate initiative, enrolling government vehicles first.

However, progress seems slow. Reports indicate that as of now, only 240 vehicles have received the new plates.

This has raised concerns about the contractor's capacity.

Despite these concerns, Minister Katumba remains confident. He dismisses allegations of the contractor's shortcomings, insisting the project is on track.

The project faced significant opposition from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and the Kampala Capital City Traders Association (KACITA) due to proposed new taxes.

Even government ministers, including Kahinda Otafiire, clashed with Security minister Jim Muhwezi, highlighting concerns about a lack of proper due diligence.

This narrative of insufficient scrutiny adds to the public's apprehension about the project's effectiveness and affordability.