Section
Recent transport coverage and related updates from across Uganda Online.
transport 18 May 2026
Motorcycle taxi operators in Uganda are urging the government and traffic police to bring back the Express Penalty System (EPS), citing a noticeable decline in road discipline and an increase in accidents since its suspension. Source: https://observer.ug/news/boda-riders-push-for-return-of-eps-amid-rising-road-crashes
news 13 May 2026
Motorists and transport operators across Uganda are expressing cautious optimism following a recent drop in fuel pump prices, offering a reprieve from months of financial strain. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/slight-fuel-drop-sigh-of-relief-for-road-users-5457828
news 11 May 2026
Road crashes in Uganda have reached a critical point, with an alarming rate of one fatality every 97 minutes, according to recent police reports. The trend highlights urgent issues with driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, and the regulation of high-risk sectors like motorcycle taxis (boda bodas). Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/a-person-dies-on-uganda-s-roads-every-97-minutes-5454716
news 10 May 2026
Kenyan truck drivers have blockaded border crossings into Uganda following the arrest of their union leader, Sudi Kauli Mwatela, by Ugandan security forces at the Elegu border post. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-south-sudan-border-impasse-uganda-security-arrests-kenyan-truck-drivers-leader-5454460
news 9 May 2026
A tragic accident on the Maddu-Ssembabule Road in Gomba district has claimed the lives of six wedding guests. The vehicle they were travelling in overturned multiple times, according to police. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/six-wedding-guests-killed-in-gomba-road-crash-5453074
news 8 May 2026
Torrential rains in Kaliro District have caused severe damage to crucial road networks, disrupting transportation and trade, and leaving residents stranded. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/heavy-rains-cut-off-transport-trade-in-kaliro-as-roads-deteriorate-5451464
news 7 May 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Works and Transport is developing new legislation that will introduce specialized 'accident victim assessors'. These professionals will investigate crash scenes, determine fault, and calculate the full financial damages, including lost income, to ensure victims or their families receive adequate compensation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/new-law-to-compel-drivers-to-fully-pay-off-road-crash-victims-5450094
news 6 May 2026
Despite increased enforcement and awareness campaigns, road traffic deaths in Uganda continue to climb. Experts and survivors point to a persistent disregard for traffic rules and risky driving behaviors as the primary culprits, rather than a lack of knowledge. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/when-road-rules-are-ignored-lives-are-lost-5449672
news 6 May 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Works and Transport is proposing reforms to eliminate car agents and middlemen in the vehicle registration process, aiming to streamline operations and curb delays. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-moves-to-eliminate-car-agents-in-vehicle-registration-5449482
news 6 May 2026
Nation Media Group Uganda and the Ministry of Works and Transport are collaborating on an upcoming Automotive Show aimed at promoting road safety through vehicle testing and advocacy. The initiative also includes plans for crash site assessors to ensure victim compensation and improve vehicle standards. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nmg-ministry-of-transport-eye-auto-show-to-promote-road-safety-5449824
news 6 May 2026
Uganda's government has suspended Nile Star Bus Company for 30 days after a crash on the Arua-Karuma highway claimed seven lives and injured 13 others. The firm is linked to 11 accidents in the past year, resulting in 11 deaths and 91 injuries, with orders to compensate affected families. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nile-star-bus-company-suspended-after-crash-leaves-seven-dead-5449110
transport 6 May 2026
Uganda's Works and Transport Minister Gen Katumba Wamala has demanded immediate reforms to the troubled digital number plate rollout, targeting a reduction in vehicle registration time from eight hours to one hour. The directives aim to end excuses, fix logistical issues, and clear backlogs frustrating motorists and car dealers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/no-more-excuses-minister-orders-overhaul-of-delayed-digital-plate-system-5449048
transport 6 May 2026
Rising fuel prices in Uganda's Busoga region are driving riders and commuters to adopt electric buses, motorcycles, and bicycles for their lower costs, reliability, and environmental benefits. Initiatives from Kiira Motors, Watu Credit, and FABIO are accelerating the transition despite ongoing challenges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/rising-fuel-prices-push-busoga-toward-electric-transport-5448728
transport 5 May 2026
Uganda Taxi Operators Federation criticizes the Kampala Capital City Authority and Kiira Motors for deploying government-funded electric buses, claiming it creates an uneven playing field and endangers private sector jobs. Operators highlight tax exemptions and lack of consultation as key issues amid plans for nationwide expansion. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/launch-of-electric-buses-irks-taxi-operators-5448494
news 5 May 2026
Fatal accidents have spiked along the Mbale-Tirinyi Highway in eastern Uganda due to overspeeding, dangerous overtaking, and disregard for traffic rules. Police report four deadly incidents in April alone, killing seven and injuring dozens, prompting intensified enforcement. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/reckless-driving-blamed-for-surge-in-fatal-crashes-on-mbale-tirinyi-highway-5447344
transport 3 May 2026
The Ugandan government has kicked off electric bus services in Kampala to tackle fuel shortages and promote clean transport, with plans to deploy around 1,500 buses across 14 cities by June 2030. The initiative starts with eight buses on select routes as officials assess market demand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-launches-electric-buses-in-kampala-with-plans-to-extend-across-14-cities-5445440
transport 1 May 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Works and Transport is hosting a key meeting with vehicle dealers, agents, ITMS, and URA to tackle ongoing issues in motor vehicle registration. The session builds on recent dealer complaints and highlights progress in plate production and installation. Source: https://observer.ug/news/works-convenes-joint-meeting-to-streamline-motor-vehicle-registration
transport 1 May 2026
Minister of Works and Transport Gen Edward Katumba-Wamala has convened car dealers, clearing agents, ITMS, and URA for a meeting to tackle motor vehicle registration issues. Stakeholders report progress in operations amid concerns over delays and exploitation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/gen-katumba-summons-meeting-to-streamline-car-registration-5443756
news 30 April 2026
A deadly accident on the Mbarara-Bushenyi highway that claimed eight lives has intensified demands from taxi operators and residents for reinstating Uganda's Express Penalty System (EPS) to combat speeding and reckless driving. Amid rising road fatalities, consultations highlight the need for technology to overcome limited human enforcement. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bushenyi-road-crash-revives-calls-for-automated-traffic-enforcement-5441982
Business 29 April 2026
Thousands of vehicle buyers in Uganda are unable to take delivery of their cleared and paid-for cars due to prolonged delays in issuing mandatory digital number plates. Dealers report backlogs of up to 10 days, higher costs, and mounting frustrations amid capacity and logistical hurdles. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/how-digital-plate-delays-are-leaving-buyers-stranded-5441248
Business 29 April 2026
Taxi and bus operators in Uganda have hiked fares due to surging fuel prices and operational expenses, with passengers facing increases of Shs5,000 to Shs25,000 on various routes. While taxi operators monitor the situation cautiously, the government plans bulk fuel imports to stabilize supply. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/passengers-pay-dearly-as-fuel-prices-push-transport-fares-up-5441408
Business 29 April 2026
Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) is spearheading a revival of the nation's railway network with $300 million from the East African Railway Rehabilitation Support Project, aiming to restore it as a key driver of economic growth. Recent upgrades have boosted cargo volumes, with ambitions to double or triple them in the coming years. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/markets/-300m-bet-will-urc-this-time-deliver-the-long-promised-railways-revival--5441190
news 28 April 2026
The Ministry of Works and Transport has introduced a guide to encourage correct helmet use among motorcycle riders and passengers, aiming to slash road deaths from boda-bodas. Officials highlight that proper helmets can reduce fatality risks by 37% amid rising crash statistics. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-launches-helmet-guide-to-curb-boda-boda-crash-deaths-5439606
infrastructure 22 April 2026
The Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project has achieved 77.66% physical progress as of March 2026, transforming urban mobility with new roads, junctions, and pedestrian facilities. While some contractors excel, others lag behind, prompting calls for acceleration to meet deadlines. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/a-sneak-peek-into-the-state-of-kampala-roads-5432868
transport 21 April 2026
Uganda's taxi operators are urging the government to delay a planned removal of unroadworthy taxis from roads, citing high repair costs, poor infrastructure, and lack of consultation. They warn that immediate enforcement could disrupt livelihoods for thousands while the ministry denies issuing such a directive. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/operators-oppose-plan-to-remove-old-taxis-from-uganda-s-roads-demand-more-time-5431688
transport 18 April 2026
Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) is set to extend its school train initiative beyond Mukono following the successful launch at Seroma Christian High School. The move aims to build capacity for mass fan transport ahead of AFCON 2027. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/urc-eyes-school-train-rollout-beyond-mukono-after-seroma-launch--5428420
news 17 April 2026
A recent study reveals that 82% of Kampala's minibus taxi drivers suffer from high stress levels, with over 70% experiencing anxiety and nearly two-thirds showing depression symptoms. Factors like long hours, sleep deprivation, economic pressures, and road accidents are driving this overlooked occupational health issue with serious public safety implications. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/why-kampala-s-taxi-drivers-remain-a-ticking-time-bomb-5427258
Business 17 April 2026
Uganda has enlisted Citibank to arrange financing for its $3.19 billion Standard Gauge Railway linking Kampala to Malaba on the Kenyan border. The move follows delays in securing funds and comes amid discussions with the World Bank for support. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-appoints-citibank-to-mobilise-funds-for-3-19b-sgr-5427404
infrastructure 16 April 2026
The Ugandan government has launched expansion works on the Busia border road, converting the outdated narrow route into a dual carriageway to handle heavy truck traffic and cut congestion. The project, part of broader infrastructure upgrades, aims to streamline cross-border trade along a vital East African route. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-expands-busia-border-road-to-dual-carriageway-to-cut-delays-5426072
transport 16 April 2026
Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) is starting a pilot train service on April 17 to transport students from Seroma High School in Mukono to drop-off points in Kampala, aiming to reduce traffic jams and enhance child safety on the busy route. The initiative targets the heavy school-run congestion by removing vehicles from the road. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/urc-introduces-school-train-services-to-cut-mukono-kampala-traffic-jam-5425792
Health 15 April 2026
Health conditions like poor vision, epilepsy, diabetes, and stroke can impair driving ability, posing risks on Ugandan roads. Experts urge regular check-ups, especially for commercial drivers, and medical clearance before returning to the wheel. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/are-you-medically-fit-to-drive--5425034
infrastructure 14 April 2026
Construction of Uganda's first arch bridge over River Ssezibwa in Kayunga District is 98% complete, with overall project progress at 60%, set for handover in December 2026. The Shs54 billion project by Dynaco Ltd replaces a 70-year-old dilapidated structure, easing detours for heavy vehicles and boosting regional trade. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/motorists-rejoice-as-construction-of-new-ssezibwa-bridge-nears-completion-5422954
news 13 April 2026
A 56-year-old Ugandan man died from head injuries after a boda boda rider struck him from behind on a potholed rural road, highlighting the deadly rise in motorcycle accidents that demand urgent multi-stakeholder action. With boda bodas involved in over a third of crashes and thousands of fatalities yearly, experts call for stricter enforcement, training, and infrastructure improvements. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/columnists/muniini-k-mulera/another-boda-boda-death-a-preventable-tragedy-5422696
economy 9 April 2026
Uganda's transport sector faces severe strain from surging fuel prices driven by Middle East tensions, with boda-boda riders and taxi operators reporting lost income as commuters resist fare hikes. Operators in regions like Kisoro and Arua warn of potential job losses and rising crime risks. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-fuel-price-surge-squeezes-transport-sector-as-global-tensions-bite-5417570
news 8 April 2026
Drivers in Northern Uganda are urging the Ministry of Works and Transport to halve the proposed Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) fines, citing their unaffordability for low-income workers amid ongoing nationwide consultations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/northern-uganda-drivers-demand-50-cut-in-proposed-eps-traffic-fines-5416598
transport 7 April 2026
Kampala's severe traffic congestion costs residents up to 52 working days annually and drains billions in productivity, prompting calls for a modern public bus network inspired by Norway's efficient model. An affordable monthly pass and dedicated lanes could slash jams, boost safety, and cut pollution while proving economically viable. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/how-to-fix-kampala-s-transport-nightmare-5415370
transport 4 April 2026
Uganda's bus operators are considering transport fare increases for the Easter season due to surging fuel prices linked to international conflicts. Safety measures are in place to prevent road accidents during the holidays. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/easter-celebrations-bus-operators-ponder-fare-increase-5413490
transport 1 April 2026
Broken-down trucks parked unsafely on major Ugandan highways are causing fatal accidents, with recent crashes claiming multiple lives. Experts urge better maintenance, strict enforcement of removal laws, safe parking zones, and infrastructure upgrades to prevent further tragedies. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/why-uganda-must-act-on-deadly-highway-breakdowns-5410488
transport 30 March 2026
Kampala's drivers treat traffic rules as optional, turning roads into chaotic playgrounds with lane-dribbling 'footballers,' fake VIPs ignoring one-ways, and opportunists tailing ambulances. The author urges personal discipline and stricter enforcement to ease congestion that wastes 52 working days yearly per driver. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/letters/kampala-roads-where-everyone-is-a-vip-5407556
news 25 March 2026
The Ministry of Works and Transport is proposing revised traffic regulations that raise speed limits on urban roads, reduce speeding fines, and extend payment deadlines from 72 hours back to 28 days. These changes address widespread complaints that led to the suspension of stricter laws last year. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-softens-on-speed-limit-and-traffic-fines-5403484
news 23 March 2026
Uganda's government has addressed shortages of digital number plates, blaming global supply chain disruptions from Middle East conflicts, as car dealers report delays in vehicle registrations and mounting losses. Officials confirm resolutions are underway with rerouted shipments and plans for regional installation centers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-blames-global-supply-disruptions-for-digital-number-plate-shortages-5400268
infrastructure 19 March 2026
Wakiso District has kicked off Shs110 billion road projects under the World Bank-funded GKMA-UDP to upgrade key routes and alleviate congestion in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. Officials hailed the initiative as a vital step for better connectivity while urging contractors to fix feeder roads and hire locals. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/wakiso-counts-on-shs110b-road-projects-to-ease-traffic-5397146
Business 19 March 2026
More than two million vehicles operate on Ugandan roads, but only 577,000 are insured, leaving over 70% uninsured. Boda bodas show the starkest gap, with just 4% coverage despite nearly two million in use. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/insurance/over-70-of-vehicles-are-uninsured-5396640
news 16 March 2026
The Ugandan government has kicked off countrywide consultations to address shortcomings in the Electronic Traffic Enforcement System (EPS). This initiative seeks to refine the system for better road safety and compliance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-govt-starts-nationwide-consultations-on-eps-system-5393280