transport 12 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government Orders Crackdown on Noisy, Illegally Modified Buses and Trucks
Ugandan authorities are directing police to impound buses and trucks fitted with "vuvuzela-like horns" and flickering lights, citing noise pollution and road safety concerns. This move coincides with an upcoming inspection of Sinotrucks due to their accident-prone nature. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-orders-crackdown-on-buses-trucks-with-vuvuzela-like-honks-flickering-lights-5555518
The Ministry of Works has issued a stern directive for the immediate impoundment of buses and trucks, particularly Sinotrucks, that are equipped with unauthorized “vuvuzela-like horns” and flickering lights. Commissioner Transport Regulation and Safety, Mr. Winstone Katushabe, emphasized that only factory-manufactured horns are permissible and that all “funny horns” must be removed.
This crackdown is partly in response to numerous complaints about excessive noise pollution. Mr. Katushabe cited specific instances near Gaddafi Mosque in Kampala, where bus companies’ constant honking from early morning until midnight has disrupted businesses and accessibility to government offices. The Ministry plans to work with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to address noise levels exceeding established decibel limits.
The directive also comes as the government prepares for a comprehensive two-month inspection of all Sinotrucks operating in Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and parts of Mpigi and Kayunga districts. These heavy-duty trucks, manufactured in China, have been flagged as “accident-prone,” with Traffic Police spokesperson Michael Kananura highlighting a significant number of indirect crashes involving these vehicles.
Concerns include drivers engaging in fatigue driving, maintaining unsafe distances leading to rear-end collisions, and operating trucks in poor mechanical condition, with worn-out tires. Police have also noted instances of Sinotruck drivers disobeying traffic officers’ directives to stop. Recent incidents, including a fatal crash on the Kampala-Masaka Highway that claimed 14 lives and an arrest of an intoxicated, unlicensed driver, underscore the urgency of these safety measures.
Moving forward, Sinotruck owners and operators will be required to ensure their drivers possess valid licenses and medical forms. Drivers will receive accreditation badges, and owners must provide appointment letters, with all information to be logged in a ministry database. Failure to comply will result in charges against both the driver and the owner.