DIGITAL PLATE PAIN! Boda Boda Riders Demand Shs714,300 Fee Cut, Temporary Permits Over Delays
By Brian Musaasizi
KAMPALA — Boda boda operators have asked Parliament to push Government to slash the cost of digital motorcycle number plates, speed up issuance and provide temporary operating permits for riders stranded by registration delays.
The Alliance Transport and Allied Workers Cooperative Union, led by chairman Frank Mawejje, presented the proposals to Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure on September 28, 2026.
The operators said they support the digital plate system because it could strengthen security, curb plate duplication and help formalise the transport sector, but warned that high charges and prolonged delays are threatening riders’ livelihoods.
SHS714K PLATE SHOCK
The union singled out the Shs714,300 charge for first-time motorcycle registration, saying it is a major increase from the previous Shs125,000 fee.
Mawejje told MPs that the increase adds about Shs589,000 to the cost of registering a motorcycle and places a heavier financial burden on boda boda riders.
He questioned why a boda boda operator should pay the same registration charge as owners of high-value vehicles.
The union wants Government to subsidise digital plates for low-income public transport operators, while allowing riders to pay the fees in instalments through SACCOs and cooperatives.
‘RIDERS ARE LOSING DAILY INCOME’
The operators also raised alarm over delays in registration, issuance and replacement of digital plates, saying some applicants have waited for several months and, in some cases, more than a year after paying the required fees.
Mawejje said the delays are particularly painful for boda boda operators because a grounded motorcycle means no daily income.
“Many boda boda riders earn between Shs20,000 and Shs40,000 a day. Riders lose that income when a motorcycle remains grounded while awaiting a plate,” Mawejje said.
The union said the situation is even more difficult for riders servicing motorcycle loans, who must continue making repayments despite being unable to operate their motorcycles.
DEMAND 7-14 DAY DEADLINE
The operators want Government to establish clear seven-to-14-day timelines for registration, issuance and replacement of digital plates.
They also proposed a public online dashboard showing applications received, existing backlogs and expected completion dates.
The union further called for more installation centres in divisions and municipalities, as well as mobile registration units to serve busy urban areas and rural districts.
For riders who have already paid for digital plates but remain grounded, the operators want Government to introduce temporary operating permits, waive penalties caused by system failures and consider compensation where administrative delays directly prevent riders from earning.
RIDERS QUESTION TRACKING
The operators also raised concerns about the tracking technology associated with the digital plate system.
They want Government to clearly explain what information is collected from motorists, who can access the data and how long it will be retained.
The union proposed publication of a data protection policy and independent oversight involving representatives of boda boda organisations.
It also called for stronger public sensitisation on tracking, penalties and procedures for replacing damaged or lost digital plates.
The concerns come as Parliament continues scrutinising the implementation of the digital plate system, with other transport and business stakeholders also raising concerns over the cost, shortages and delays.
Earlier this month, KACITA told the committee that the Shs714,300 charge and persistent shortages were disrupting vehicle businesses.
The Government introduced digital plates under the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) to strengthen vehicle identification, tracking and law enforcement.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced measures to address the delays, including reviewing the contractor’s capacity, investigating applications that were paid for but remain pending and considering additional service providers.
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