Bus drivers protest mandatory identification badges, seek extension

Bus drivers in Kampala, under the National Union of Drivers, Cyclists, and Allied Workers (NUDCAW), have protested the mandatory identification badges, citing financial and operational challenges.

The drivers have appealed to the Ministry of Works and Transport to extend the deadline for obtaining the badges by two months.

The original deadline of December 4, 2024, has proven difficult for many to meet due to delays in the issuance process, with only one person authorised to distribute the badges.

In a letter signed by General Secretary Moses Baleka, the union warned that the delays could disrupt bus operations during the holiday season, a crucial period for the transport sector.

“This is their busiest season, and any interference will hinder operators from earning sufficient revenue to service loans, pay taxes, and meet employee salaries,” the letter stated.

The union also highlighted potential ripple effects, including losses for employers and reduced government revenue.

As part of the letter, NUDCAW announced the formation of a new umbrella body for bus drivers, the Federation of Uganda Bus Drivers Association, led by Mr. Kakaire Humaru of YY Coaches.

This body aims to enhance coordination and provide a unified voice for drivers in stakeholder engagements.

While reiterating their commitment to compliance, the union urged the government to consider the drivers’ challenges during this transitional period. They also requested a meeting with the minister to discuss the matter.

Last week, the Traffic Police warned bus drivers to comply with the badge regulation by December 4.

Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura emphasised that non-compliance would attract severe penalties, including imprisonment of up to seven years under Section 42(2) of the Traffic and Road Safety Act.

“These badges, issued free of charge by the Ministry of Works and Transport, are mandatory under Section 42(1)(e) of the Act. Any driver found without a valid badge will be charged and taken to court,” Kananura stated.

From December 4, traffic officers at checkpoints across the country will inspect bus drivers for compliance. Non-compliant drivers will be barred from carrying passengers and face prosecution.

The ministry has stressed that the badges are available at no cost and urged all drivers to act promptly to secure them.

However, as the deadline looms, uncertainty persists over whether the government will grant the requested extension, leaving drivers and operators anxious during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.