Bedbugs Infest Kampala Taxis

The growing number of complaints has drawn the attention of taxi operators. Mustifa Mayambala, vice chairperson of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation, confirmed that the issue has become a public concern.

Passengers using Kampala’s taxi parks are grappling with a growing bed bug infestation, with many recounting unsettling encounters in taxis.

One commuter at the Old Taxi Park described how a bed bug crawled onto his white shirt as he waited for transport.

Another passenger caused commotion in a taxi from Pioneer Mall to Ntinda after spotting a bed bug on the seat he was assigned.

“Ssebo, ani gw’otuza mu biku? First come and look for it before I sit there!” he exclaimed, refusing to take the seat.

A woman in the back seat shared how a similar encounter had ruined her evening plans. “I became uneasy and ended the date abruptly because of that bed bug,” she said.

The growing number of complaints has drawn the attention of taxi operators. Mustifa Mayambala, vice chairperson of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation (UTOFE), confirmed that the issue has become a public concern.

He acknowledged receiving numerous reports from commuters and revealed that plans to fumigate taxis were already in motion.

“We got a company for fumigation and wrote to KCCA, but unfortunately, the communication went to the old administration before they were relieved of their duties. We have now engaged the new leadership,” Mayambala said.

He explained that once coordination between KCCA, the fumigation contractor, and taxi operators is finalized, the exercise will commence, likely when schools close for holidays.

“We intend to collaborate with school administrations around Kampala, including Nakasero, Nakivubo, and Old Kampala, where taxis will be assembled for fumigation. Any taxis evading the KCCA bylaws will face penalties,” he added.

Efforts to get a response from Henry Kaula, who oversees public health at KCCA, were unsuccessful, though he promised to address the matter next week.

With over 20,000 taxis operating in and around Kampala, the infestation has raised hygiene concerns for both passengers and drivers.