Mukula Proposes Unified Colour Code for Special Hire Taxis to Curb Chaos in Uganda’s Transport Sector

Former NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda and Chairperson of the Pan African Movement, Captain Mike Mukula, has called for sweeping reforms in Uganda’s special hire taxi sector, including the adoption of a bold, uniform national colour to distinguish the vehicles from other public service transport.

Mukula proposed that all special hire taxis be painted either royal blue or yellow to create a clear and instantly recognizable identity. He urged the Ministry of Works and Transport to enact statutory regulations mandating the colour nationwide, arguing that this would eliminate growing confusion between special hire vehicles, regular commuter taxis, and boda bodas.

“We need clear identity, clear standards, and proper enforcement if we are to achieve modern transport for a growing Uganda,” Mukula said, underscoring the urgency of aligning the country’s urban transport system with international best practices.

Beyond visual identity, the veteran politician recommended that major urban centres—including Kampala, Gulu, Mbarara, and Jinja—gazette designated parking zones for special hire operators. This, he noted, would streamline operations and bring much-needed order to the often chaotic transport sector.

Mukula also stressed the importance of strict enforcement of minimum operating standards. He proposed comprehensive insurance coverage, digital registration systems, routine safety inspections, driver vetting, and fare transparency as non-negotiable requirements for operators.

Drawing comparisons with global cities like London and New York, Mukula noted that structured regulation in those jurisdictions has significantly enhanced passenger safety, public trust, and investor confidence.

“Clear identity. Clear standards. Proper enforcement. That is the foundation of modern transport,” he emphasized.

If adopted, the proposed reforms could mark a major shift in Uganda’s public transport landscape, bringing order, professionalism, and international standards to the roads.