The initiative, organised in partnership with the Uganda Police Force, the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), the Ministry of Works and Transport and private sector players, sought to equip women riders with skills necessary to enhance safety and service delivery.
Speaking during the event, the chairperson of the Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association, Dativah Mukeshimana, said the association is determined to change perceptions about women working in the boda boda industry and promote professionalism among female riders.
“We want to cause a behavioural change and a shift in mindset in how people see the role of women in society. These female riders deserve to be seen as professional, safe and responsible riders,” Mukeshimana said.
She noted that beyond earning a livelihood, female riders are making a significant contribution to Uganda's economy and should be supported to thrive in the sector.
Mukeshimana said the training addressed the unique challenges faced by women in the motorcycle transport business and explored ways of equipping them with the skills and support required to succeed.
The chairperson of the NRM Women's League, Adrine Kobusingye, who presided over the event as chief guest, commended the association for promoting road safety and self-reliance among women.
“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 underwent training in road safety, customer care, mental health awareness and adherence to traffic regulations, with organisers saying the knowledge acquired would help improve service standards and strengthen compliance with road safety requirements.
Traffic police spokesperson SP Michael Kananura urged riders to embrace discipline while on the road, warning that reckless behaviour often exposes motorists to accidents and legal action.
He said compliance with traffic rules remains key to reducing road crashes and ensuring riders stay on the right side of the law.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport used the event to update participants on government's plans to reintroduce the Express Penalty System (EPS), which they said is intended to promote compliance with traffic regulations and curb dangerous driving practices.
“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 official said.
Steven Turyarugayo, the Public Relations Consultant for ITMS, explained the role of intelligent transport technologies in enhancing security and vehicle traceability.
He revealed that the recently concluded national validation exercise on the Express Penalty System had received encouraging feedback from the public.
“We have just concluded the national validation exercise on the Express Penalty System. The feedback from Ugandans has been positive, with many expressing optimism that EPS will reduce road accidents and bring sanity to our roads,” Turyarugayo said.
The event also attracted private sector players who showcased innovations in e-mobility and advanced automotive technologies, highlighting the growing shift towards sustainable transport solutions.
Organisers said the partnership between government agencies and the private sector provides a blueprint for empowering women in the transport industry while fostering safer roads and improved public transport services.
As Uganda continues to modernise its transport infrastructure, the Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association says it is committed to ensuring women are not merely participants in the sector but active leaders championing professionalism, road safety and responsible transport services.