Ibanda Municipality is grappling with mounting traffic congestion as taxi operators continue loading and offloading passengers along major streets, ignoring directives to use designated taxi parks.
Despite the existence of two gazetted taxi parks—one in the town centre and another along the Ibanda–Kazo road—many operators prefer busy roadside points, leaving the official parks underutilized and contributing to disorder within the town.
Municipal authorities had previously instructed all taxi operators to strictly use the designated parks to streamline traffic flow and restore order. However, compliance remains low.
Taxi park leaders say the town’s layout complicates enforcement, noting that multiple entry and exit points make it easy for express taxis to bypass the parks.
“The challenge is that the town has several access points. Taxis coming from or heading to Mbarara, Fort Portal, and Kazo find it easier to pick passengers along the street. Commuters also prefer this because it saves them time,” said Musa Katumba, Head of the Ibanda Taxi Drivers Association (ITODA).
The Deputy Mayor of Ibanda Municipality, Deus Owarugaba, acknowledged the ongoing challenge, stating that authorities have repeatedly engaged taxi operators, but with limited success.
“We have held several meetings with taxi operators to encourage compliance, but many have not adhered to the guidelines. Our enforcement capacity is also limited due to inadequate personnel, which makes it difficult to monitor all areas effectively,” Owarugaba said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Town Clerk Pius Murekyezi revealed that the municipal council has resumed discussions with taxi and bus operators to find a lasting solution.
“Dialogue is important in resolving this matter. However, if this approach does not yield results, we shall have no option but to enforce the law, including impounding vehicles that do not comply,” Murekyezi warned.
Authorities are urging all taxi operators to fully utilize the gazetted parks, emphasizing that adherence to guidelines is critical to reducing congestion, improving traffic flow, and restoring order in Ibanda town.
