Local Taxi Drivers Fear Competition as MV Salama Enters Road Transport Sector

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Local Taxi Drivers Fear Competition as MV Salama Enters Road Transport Sector
Taxi operators in Tororo prefer to load passengers along the road

The transport company, which has primarily operated speed boats to ferry passengers between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, intends to bring its own vehicles to transport passengers from the Buhuuka landing site to Kampala.

Taxi operators in Buhuuka and Hoima have expressed serious concerns regarding MV Salama’s plans to expand its operations by introducing road transport services.

The transport company, which has primarily operated speed boats to ferry passengers between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, intends to bring its own vehicles to transport passengers from the Buhuuka landing site to Kampala.

Local drivers fear this move will significantly undermine their livelihoods.

Local taxi drivers have relied on passenger transport since the government imposed restrictions on fishing activities, a primary source of income for many in the area.

During a security meeting held at Buhuuka landing site on Tuesday afternoon, drivers voiced their opposition to the new arrangement, citing its potential to diminish their income.

Hamfrey Mugisa, chairperson of the Hoima Taxi Drivers Association, urged MV Salama to concentrate on its maritime operations instead of encroaching into road transport.

“We have accommodated them on water with their speed boats; they now want to take our passengers in the country," Mugisa said.

"This is not good, and we ask the Kikuube leadership and government not to allow this company to operate on land. Most of our drivers are already competing for passengers. If MV Salama enters the road transport sector, many drivers will be forced out of business with no alternatives."

Peter Banura, the Kikuube District chairman, echoed these concerns, arguing that allowing taxi drivers from Congo to compete with local drivers does not make sense.

“We know for a fact there are many restrictions on fishing. Our people, who were once fishermen, have turned to transport services. If MV Salama starts road transport here, they will outcompete our local drivers, which is a concern I fully support,” Banura said.

The drivers emphasized that with the Ministry of Fisheries' rejection of local fishing activities, transportation has become their primary source of income.

In response to the growing unrest, Monday Kaliisa, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Kikuube, announced that resolutions have been established to address the challenges posed by both local drivers and MV Salama transporters.

“We have noted the matter with concern as security, and we are making resolutions and guidance. Once we harmonize the situation, we will call both parties together to find a way forward,” Kaliisa assured the drivers.

The future of local taxi drivers in Buhuuka remains uncertain as they await the outcome of these discussions.

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