transport 25 September 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Motorists Overcharged for Digital Number Plates in Kampala
Car bond operators in Kampala are reportedly charging motorists significantly more than the official Shs 714,300 fee for digital number plates, with some payments reaching up to Shs 2 million. Lack of itemized receipts for these inflated charges is raising concerns about potential exploitation. Source: https://observer.ug/news/exposed-motorists-charged-more-than-double-for-digital-number-plates
Motorists in Kampala are facing exorbitant charges for digital number plates, with some car bond operators allegedly charging more than double the gazetted government fee. The official cost for a digital number plate is Shs 714,300, yet records indicate some intermediaries are demanding amounts as high as Shs 2 million for related transactions.
A review of receipts issued by various car bond operators and intermediaries has revealed a wide disparity in charges. While some additional fees might be legitimate for services rendered, the absence of detailed breakdowns on many receipts is causing suspicion. For instance, one receipt for Shs 1.485 million included “Taxes + DPC plates + clearance” without itemizing these costs, leaving a substantial unexplained amount beyond the official plate fee.
Similar issues have been observed with other intermediaries. Receipts totaling Shs 2.1 million and Shs 1.98 million were issued for motorcycle registration transactions, but these also lacked the necessary itemization to clarify how the total amounts were calculated, including official government charges, registration fees, and any private service fees.
Winstone Katushabe, Commissioner for Transport and Road Safety, has issued a stern warning against such overcharging. He emphasized that any private service fees must be clearly separated and itemized from official government charges. Katushabe reiterated that the Shs 714,300 fee for the digital number plate itself should not be exceeded.
To combat potential corruption and irregularities, an Anti-Corruption Hotline has been established at +256 326 88530 for motorists to report suspicious demands or overcharging. Furthermore, the Ministry of Works and Transport has launched the Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) portal, allowing individuals to track their application progress. Motorists are encouraged to scrutinize all receipts and demand clear explanations for any charges exceeding the official government rates. For assistance, the ministry’s hotline is 0200 420 000.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)