The Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association, operating under Boda Boda Industry Uganda (BBIU), has partnered with the Uganda Police Force, the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), and private sector stakeholders to train female motorcycle riders on road safety, professionalism, and responsible road use.
The training, held in Kampala, brought together women riders to discuss challenges affecting their work and equip them with skills aimed at improving safety, customer service, and professional conduct within the transport sector.
Speaking at the event, the association's Chairperson, Mukeshimana Dativah, said the initiative seeks to promote professionalism among female riders while challenging societal perceptions about women's roles in the transport industry.
"We want to promote behavioural change and transform the way society views women in the boda boda sector. Female riders should be recognised as professional, safe, and responsible road users," Dativah said.
Discussions focused on the challenges faced by women operating in the largely male-dominated boda boda industry and explored ways of enhancing their participation, safety, and economic empowerment.
The Chairperson of the NRM Women's League, Adrine Kobusingye, who attended as chief guest, commended the association for promoting discipline, self-reliance, and road safety among women riders.
"As women, we must continue to lead by example, embrace discipline, support one another, and contribute positively to safer roads and stronger communities," Kobusingye said.
Participants received training on road safety regulations, customer care, mental health awareness, and compliance with traffic laws.
Speaking during the training, SP Michael Kananura of the Uganda Police Force urged riders to maintain discipline on the roads and comply with traffic regulations to reduce accidents and avoid penalties.
Representatives from the Ministry of Works and Transport also briefed participants on government plans to reintroduce the Express Penalty System (EPS), which is intended to enhance compliance with traffic laws and improve road safety.
"Every road user has a role to play in making our roads safer, and EPS is one of the tools helping us achieve that goal. Our focus is on changing behaviour and enhancing road safety," a ministry representative said.
ITMS Public Relations Consultant Steven Turyarugayo highlighted the role of intelligent transport technologies in improving road safety, security, and vehicle traceability.
He noted that public feedback from the recently concluded national validation exercise on the Express Penalty System had been largely positive.
"We have received encouraging feedback from Ugandans, many of whom believe EPS will contribute to reducing road accidents and improving discipline on our roads," Turyarugayo said.
The event also featured presentations from private sector players showcasing developments in e-mobility and emerging automotive technologies aimed at promoting sustainable and efficient transportation.
Organisers said the initiative demonstrates the importance of partnerships between government agencies, the private sector, and rider associations in improving road safety standards and supporting women's participation in the transport sector.
As Uganda continues to modernise its transport systems, the association says it is committed to ensuring that women riders play an active role in promoting professionalism and safer roads.