MPs Confirm Digital Number Plate System Tracks Vehicles After Demonstration

Members of Parliament on the Committee on Physical Infrastructure have confirmed that Uganda’s digital number plate system is capable of tracking vehicles. This verification followed a hands-on demonstration of the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) at the Police Command Centre in Naguru.

The inspection, led by Committee Chairperson Mwine Mpaka, aimed to address concerns raised by MPs regarding the system’s effectiveness, particularly its security and vehicle-tracking functions. Earlier hearings had highlighted issues such as delays in plate issuance, production capacity, associated costs, and the system’s actual security benefits.

During a prior session, the Police Director of ICT, AIGP Felix Baryamwisaki, presented data showing a high recovery rate for stolen vehicles (90%) tracked via the digital plates, attributing this to GPS technology. However, the recovery rate for stolen motorcycles fitted with these plates was significantly lower, at 22%.

Legislators then visited the monitoring center to witness the system in operation. They were shown how vehicles are identified, data processed, and how the technology aids police operations. “Yes, indeed, we have established that cars and motorbikes can be tracked,” stated Mpaka post-demonstration. “The issue of digital number plates is clearly important. We just need to see how we can improve the system.”

The committee also examined the storage of system data, with the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces confirming it is stored domestically. This practical verification comes as Parliament continues to deliberate on the project’s broader implementation, including concerns about the monopoly granted to the Russian-based contractor, Global Security, and ongoing issues with plate availability and cost.

While the tracking functionality has been confirmed, the committee’s focus remains on improving the system, addressing cost concerns, and assessing the contractor’s capabilities. The committee’s findings from these inspections and hearings will inform recommendations for the digital number plate project’s enhancement.

Source: Nile Post