Boda-boda riders in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (Kampala city, Mukono, Wakiso and Entebbe) will soon wear uniform, identifiable reflector jackets as part of a government initiative to enhance safety and order in the sector.
The jackets will feature the rider’s photo, name, contact information, and a QR code for quick identification. Additionally, the jackets will be color-coded based on the rider’s division of operation: pink for Kampala Central, dark blue for Makindye, and forest green for Nakawa.
According to the Ministry of Transport, these details will be synchronized with the registered information of the motorcycle, including its number plate.
“The initiative is designed to improve rider identification, enhance passenger safety, and reduce cases of impersonation. It is a significant step towards creating an organized and accountable transport system,” the Ministry announced on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
In a further bid to improve road safety, the government has mandated that all new motorcycles sold must include two standard helmets — one for the rider and another for the passenger.
This decision was reached during a consultative meeting involving motorcycle assembly companies, dealers, and financiers. The ministry emphasized that no motorcycle will be allowed to leave the assembly line without the helmets.
“Regulations for the standardization of helmets are already in place and must be strictly adhered to for any motorcycle to be registered,” the Ministry stated.
These measures are part of a broader effort to streamline the boda-boda industry and restore order on Ugandan roads, addressing safety concerns and ensuring accountability across the sector.