Boda boda riders to have two number plates

KAMPALA - Government is set to implement a policy of having two number plates for boda-boda riders (motorcyclists) at the front and back, according to outgoing minister of works and transport, John Byabagambi.

He said the policy has already been gazetted and is to be implemented in this financial year.

The motivation behind this reform is that notorious riders who often break traffic regulations "will not get away with it".

Byabagambi (pictured below), who is now minister of Karamoja affairs, revealed this during a handover ceremony at the ministry of works headquarters, and said he is ready to take on his new docket.

Lately, there has been a crackdown on boda-boda riders by the traffic police over operating without driving licenses.

Meanwhile, Byabagambi hailed Uganda National Road Authority (UNRA) for tarmacking 1700 kms in the last seven years. UNRA boss Allen Kagina attended the event.

It is understood the Soroti Flying School has been funded to a tune of sh9b to make it a centre of excellence in the East African Community.

And on a lighter note, Byabagambi advised fellow ministers to start preparing notes of handing over (their offices) - just in case.

"Start preparing handover notes even in a week because the appointing authority can wake up and say ‘you go'," he quipped.

Dropped state minister of transport Asuman Kiyingi also lent his humorous side to the function, drawing laughter when he said that despite being out of the cabinet, would bounce back in a "bigger way".

Asuman Kiyingi hands over to Monica Ntege Azuba. (Credit: Francis Emorut)

Departing state minister for works Stephen Chebrot pleaded with the staff not to lock him out or make him fill a visitors form when he visits the ministry.

To this, his successor, Aggrey Bagiire, said Chebrot was free to check on him any time and without filling in a form.

On a more serious note, Bagiire warned the technocrats that they should be in the field supervising government projects instead of only sitting in offices as the ministers are on pressure to perform.

The new minister of works and transport, Monica Ntege Azuba advised the technocrats not to hesitate to consult her on issues regarding the ministry.

"I have an open-door policy. Don't hesitate to come to my office."