Minister Kyofatogabye Urges Public Sensitisation in Fight Against Counterfeit Motorcycles

The State Minister for Kampala, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, has called on the public to join the fight against counterfeit motorcycles and spare parts.

He said the best tool in this fight is public sensitisation.

Many riders, he noted, have faced the risks and losses caused by fake products.

“First, tell users the dangers,” the minister said. “Many have seen them for themselves.”

He stressed that when people stop buying fake parts, the market will collapse.

“The biggest weapon is choice,” Kyofatogabye said. “When buyers reject fake products, dealers lose business.”

He urged government agencies like UNBS to work with the public.

While enforcement is important, he said, an informed population can make better decisions.

Kyofatogabye also revealed a new government partnership with global motorcycle brand Honda.

The goal is to supply affordable, high-quality motorcycles to boda boda riders.

He said the partnership aims to improve livelihoods, fight exploitation by lenders, and bring order to the booming motorcycle sector in Kampala.

“For 75 years, Honda has been trusted in Ugandan homes,” Kyofatogabye said.

“This is about reviving that trust and giving riders durable, affordable motorcycles.”

He said many riders used to pay over Shs14 million for bikes that cost Shs1.3 million at the start. Under the new plan, riders can now get motorcycles at nearly half the previous cost, with a down payment as low as Shs250,000.

“This time, riders don’t have to sell land to buy a boda boda,” he said. “We want them to save money, develop their land, and build a better future.”

To support this shift, the government has helped organise over 103 boda boda SACCOs in Kampala. These groups give riders access to loans, training, and support.

There’s also a refresher road safety program run with the Uganda Police. The training aims to improve rider discipline and reduce accidents.

“We are training them not just to ride, but to ride responsibly,” Kyofatogabye said. “A disciplined rider lives longer, earns more, and helps keep the city in order.”

He said the program is already showing results. Riders report fewer accidents and better savings.

The government now plans to expand the model across Uganda to create safer roads and more stable incomes.