Museveni issues fresh support to boda boda operators, warns against misuse of funds

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President Yoweri Museveni has announced renewed financial support for boda boda operators while issuing a stern warning to those who misused previous government funds intended for the sector.

Speaking during a meeting with transport sector stakeholders at Kololo ceremonial grounds on Sunday, September 21, Museveni emphasised the importance of accountability and transparency, particularly in the management of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation (SACCO) funds established to empower local riders.

“We started a SACCO for the boda bodas with Moses Byaruhanga (senior presidential advisor on mobilisation) many years ago 2011,” Museveni said.

“We put money in this SACCO you are talking about. But the money disappeared. Now we are starting again.”

The President revealed that he has injected 10 million Ugandan shillings into the boda boda SACCO as a fresh boost, with specific instructions on how it should be used.

“I have put in your SACCO sh10m today,” he stated. “These SACCOs are not for the bagaga (the wealthy) who are looking for business. We are looking at the motorcycle riders.”

In a bid to ensure effective use of the funds, Museveni said the money must not be used to settle debts with moneylenders, whose high interest rates he condemned.

“This money is not for paying money lenders. Because paying the money lenders, you are stealing our money,” he declared. “Somebody gave you 5 million, and he is demanding sh12m from you. That one I cannot pay. Therefore, don't use my money to pay those people.”

The President clarified that the funds are intended to support riders in acquiring motorcycles and improving their livelihoods.

“I want this money to be used to make a fresh start. The money pays for the value of the motorcycle, the way it is, which is like sh5m. That is the money I am giving you, and that is how you should use it.”

To institutionalise the guidelines, Museveni said an executive order would be issued.

“I am going to issue an executive order to that effect. And the money should be paid after one year. This is now your money forever.”

In a firm tone, Museveni warned those who may misuse the new funds, promising accountability.

“And anybody who plays around, I will go for him,” he said. “I want to know what happened to the other money, because you would not be having this problem all this time. I have given you the solution.”

He also urged stakeholders to work with the government on related matters such as training and regulation.

“The other issues, like the training, you can discuss with the government to see how it is done,” Museveni said, adding that previous attempts had been undermined by corruption.

“The penalties were too much. And they were not true. They were infiltrated by the thieves. But we shall sort it out.”

At the event, Museveni reiterated his commitment to supporting the sector and rooting out misuse, noting that the government would not allow funds to be misapplied.

Frank Mawejje, chairperson of the Boda Boda Association in Kampala, welcomed the government’s intervention.

He said the timing was perfect for an industry that employs an estimated 1.3 million people nationwide, one third of whom are based in Kampala.

He noted that the sector has long struggled with exploitative lenders who demand high interest and unnecessary collateral, making it difficult for young riders to acquire motorcycles.

“Most of our members are young people who have struggled to acquire motorcycles because lenders demand collateral such as national identity cards and still impose very high interest rates,” Mawejje said.

He praised the President’s intervention, saying the sh10.2b extended to their SACCOs would provide a safer, more affordable path for riders to own motorcycles and build sustainable livelihoods.

“This shift will reduce financial stress, restore dignity, and stabilise the entire transport sector,” he added.

Minister for the Presidency Milly Babirye Babalanda also commended President Museveni for his consistent support of the boda boda sector. She highlighted how the government’s investment in national road infrastructure has complemented these financial interventions, making transport safer and more efficient.

“The President has not only supported riders with financial empowerment but also ensured that the roads they use daily are improved, making transport faster, safer, and more reliable,” she said.

Kabuye Kyofatogabye, Minister of State for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, echoed those sentiments. He thanked the President for prioritising the welfare of boda boda riders and urged them to remain organised under their SACCOs. He said proper management of the funds would ensure lasting benefits for the sector.

“Let this money work for you and your families. Remain organised, avoid misuse, and together we shall build a stronger and more respected industry,” he said.