By KT Reporter
The State Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, has called on Boda Boda riders across the country to remain alert in the wake of recent terror threats. His call comes after a suspected terror attack was foiled by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) on Tuesday at the Munyonyo Catholic Shrine, during the Martyrs Day celebrations.
According to security reports, a Boda Boda rider was intercepted while transporting a woman carrying an explosive device, which later detonated a few meters from Munyonyo Basilica, where hundreds had gathered to commemorate the day.
The device exploded prematurely, and no civilian casualties were reported. Speaking during the launch of the United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union App, Kyofatogabye urged riders to be cautious of the passengers they transport to avoid being used as unsuspecting accomplices.
The newly launched Union App is an innovation aimed at bridging gaps in the online Boda Boda transport sector. Kyofatogabye applauded the initiative and encouraged the union to recruit more riders, especially in urban areas, to improve the sector through digital solutions.
Frank Mawejje, Chairperson of the United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union, said the App will boost the financial welfare of riders and help reduce criminal incidents associated with unregulated operators. Mawejje noted that the union has partnered with telecom provider MTN to provide smartphones, free data, and voice calls to riders who operate from registered stages.
He emphasized that this move will help weed out criminal elements who operate without fixed stages and often evade regulation. To complement government efforts in traffic enforcement, Mawejje said the union has introduced a health and safety education component in collaboration with the traffic police. The training, which will be offered for free, is aimed at educating riders on road signs and traffic regulations.
Kasawuli Baker, the General Manager of the union, said the App is designed to address exploitation in the digital Boda Boda sector, where other service providers charge high commission rates. With the Union App, riders will be charged a 7 percent commission per trip, significantly lower than what major platforms currently demand.
Kasawuli added that even passengers without smartphones can access services via the rider’s App, making it inclusive and accessible nationwide. However, he acknowledged that many riders lack digital literacy, creating an urgent need for training to ensure effective use of the platform. Uganda currently has over 1.5 million motorcycles on the road, with Boda Bodas accounting for nearly 70 percent of all vehicles.
The sector is a major source of livelihood, particularly in urban centers like Kampala. As security threats persist and digital integration into transport services advances, stakeholders believe that vigilance, education, and innovation will be critical in ensuring both safety and sustainability in Uganda’s Boda Boda industry-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
