Female boda boda riders in Kampala have received specialized training in road safety, professionalism and customer care as Uganda prepares to reinstate the Express Penalty System (EPS), a government initiative aimed at improving compliance with traffic regulations and reducing road crashes.
The training, organized for members of the Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association, brought together officials from the Uganda Police Force, the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS), the Ministry of Works and Transport, and private sector partners to equip women riders with practical skills needed to operate safely and professionally.
Speaking during the training, the association’s chairperson, Mukeshimana Dativah, said the initiative seeks to empower female riders while challenging stereotypes surrounding women working in the largely male-dominated boda boda industry.
“We want to inspire behavioural change and transform perceptions about the role of women in society. Female riders should be recognized as professional, safe and responsible transport providers,” Dativah said.
She noted that women operating motorcycles for commercial transport contribute significantly to the country’s economy and deserve opportunities to enhance their skills and livelihoods.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport used the training to sensitize participants on the planned reintroduction of EPS, which is expected to promote adherence to traffic rules, discourage reckless driving and improve road safety.
“Every road user has a responsibility to make our roads safer. The Express Penalty System is one of the tools intended to encourage responsible behaviour and enhance safety for all road users,” a ministry representative said.
Steven Turyarugayo, Public Relations Consultant at ITMS, highlighted the role of technology in improving road safety, security and vehicle traceability.
“We recently concluded the nationwide validation exercise on the Express Penalty System, and many Ugandans expressed optimism that it will help reduce road crashes and restore order on our roads,” Turyarugayo said.
Traffic Police spokesperson SP Michael Kananura urged riders to remain disciplined and comply with traffic regulations, stressing that responsible road use is key to preventing accidents and avoiding penalties.
Participants were trained in road safety, customer relations, mental health awareness and traffic regulations, while also discussing challenges encountered by women working in the boda boda sector.
The chief guest, Hon. Kobusingye Adrine, Chairperson of the NRM Women’s League, commended the association for promoting professionalism, self-reliance and safer road practices among women riders.
“As women, we must continue leading by example, embracing discipline, supporting one another and contributing positively to safer roads and stronger communities,” she said.
The event also featured demonstrations by private sector companies showcasing innovations in electric mobility and advanced automotive technologies, underscoring efforts to build a more sustainable and efficient transport system.
Organizers said the collaboration between government agencies, private companies and rider associations demonstrates how partnerships can enhance road safety while expanding economic opportunities for women in the transport industry.
As Uganda moves to modernize its transport sector, the Kampala Twezimbe Women Boda Boda Riders Association says it is committed to ensuring women are not merely participants in the industry, but champions of professionalism, safety and responsible riding.
