A dispute between boda boda riders and Kayunga Town Council over proposed operational levies has been resolved after district leaders brokered an agreement between the two sides.
The resolution followed protests by boda boda operators who opposed new charges introduced by the Town Council, arguing that they had not been adequately consulted before the fees were announced.
The matter was addressed during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), bringing together district leaders, Town Council officials and representatives of the boda boda fraternity.
Speaking on behalf of the riders, Kayunga Town Mayor Saul Balagadde appealed to authorities to reduce the proposed annual garbage collection contribution from Shs25,000 to Shs10,000 per rider.
He also requested that the proposed Shs50,000 fee charged on each boda boda stage be scrapped, arguing that the charges would increase the financial burden on riders.
The stakeholders agreed to the proposals, reducing the annual garbage collection contribution to Shs10,000 and abolishing the Shs50,000 stage fee.
The meeting also resolved to drop the proposed Shs500,000 monthly payment, while boda boda leaders were tasked with consulting their members before making decisions affecting the sector.
To improve organisation and order within Kayunga Town Council, leaders directed all boda boda riders to return to their gazetted stages.
Kayunga Town Clerk Faridah Kulabako gave riders a two-week ultimatum to register and operate from approved stages, warning that those who fail to comply would face arrest and prosecution.
Meanwhile, Deputy Resident District Commissioner John Magezi urged boda boda riders to form Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) to promote financial discipline and improve their livelihoods.
“Form a SACCO, embrace saving, and work together to improve your economic future,” Magezi advised.
He also cautioned riders against working with criminals, saying some boda boda operators have been exploited by individuals involved in insecurity within the district.
“Do not connive with criminals. Boda boda riders should be partners in safeguarding security, not a threat to it,” he warned.
Magezi further urged riders to maintain discipline, observe traffic regulations, keep their working areas clean and uphold professionalism while serving the public.
The meeting ended with a commitment from district leaders, the Town Council and boda boda representatives to continue using dialogue to address challenges affecting the transport sector while promoting law, order and safety in Kayunga.
