Bodaboda leadership decry insecurity, Call for Government Support

Leaders of the United Bodaboda Riders Cooperative Union have raised alarm over increasing security threats within the motorcycle transport sector, cautioning riders to be more vigilant and alert during their daily operations.

The Union, which represents thousands of boda boda riders across the country, is urging its members to treat every passenger with caution amid fears that criminals and terrorists are using riders to execute illegal operations.

Speaking during a press conference held at the Union’s headquarters in Kansanga, Union Chairperson Frank Mawejje emphasised the urgent need for safety protocols and technological intervention to combat emerging threats.

He revealed that there have been recent cases where bodaboda riders were unknowingly used to transport individuals and items involved in criminal activities, including the Munyonyo bombing incident, which remains a painful reminder of the security gaps in the sector.

“We need tools to help identify who riders are transporting. Many crimes have been committed using unsuspecting riders, especially recently,” Mawejje said.

The Union is advocating for the installation of passenger and luggage scanning equipment at all bodaboda stages as a counter-terrorism measure.

According to Mawejje, these scanners would serve as a first line of defence in identifying potentially dangerous individuals and ensuring public safety.

To bolster security, the Union is rolling out a new digital platform dubbed the "Union App", which will track rider operations, streamline coordination, and deter criminal infiltration. This application will also help in monitoring rider behavior and enable easier identification of rogue elements operating outside established structures.

Recognising the digital divide among some riders, the Union has committed to helping those without smartphones acquire affordable devices to access the app and be part of the new system.

In addition, the Union is collaborating with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to ensure that all riders within Kampala are attached to registered and recognised stages. Mawejje noted that riders operating outside official stages are more likely to be used by wrongdoers, and formalising the system is key to restoring discipline in the sector.

Despite its ongoing efforts, the United Bodaboda Riders Union decried the lack of substantial support from the government, particularly in initiatives aimed at securing and organising the sector.

Mawejje disclosed plans to introduce distinctive uniforms for each stage, a move aimed at making riders more identifiable and accountable. However, he appealed to the government for financial support to realise this goal.

“We are doing our best, but we need the government to come in and support this work so that we can eliminate lawlessness in the bodaboda business,” Mawejje stated.

The Union’s leadership reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with authorities to promote security, discipline, and professionalism among Uganda’s bodaboda community. They urged all riders to immediately report any suspicious passengers or activity to law enforcement, warning that their vigilance could save lives.

As the country remains on high alert to prevent terrorism, stakeholders believe that strengthening the bodaboda sector is a crucial step in ensuring national security.