Over 70 % of motorists in Kigezi drive with expired licences, police say
Summary:
- Police reveal that Over 70% Motorists Drive with expired driving licenses in the Kigezi Region
Police have revealed that over 70% of the motorists in the Kigezi Region have been driving without valid permits or with expired ones due to the long distance to the central licensing office located in Mbarara City.
Speaking on Monday during the Uganda Driver Licensing System (UDLS] mobile enrolment exercise at Northern division Officers in Kabale Municipality, the Kigezi Regional IOV-ASP Francis Tadare stated that they are currently assessing the number of first-time drivers as well as those with expired licenses in need of renewal.
He explained that the long distance from the six districts of Kigezi namely; Kabale, Kisoro, Kanungu, Rukiga, Rubanda and Rukungiri to the issuance canters, coupled with high transportation and accommodation costs, has discouraged many from renewing their licenses.
“Because of surging numbers of drivers with expired licenses on the road, the ministry should consider decentralizing services to regional areas, especially given the rough terrain in Kigezi subregion.” Tadare noted
However, he commended the ministry of works and Transport for introducing mobile enrolment services, which have made it easier for both new applicants and those renewing licenses to access the service.
“Another good point to note is that several driving schools have been established in the region to educate drivers about road signs and their importance, a move that has helped reduce the number of road accidents.” He added
Petterson Mandela a team leader for Uganda Driver Licensing System (UDLS] mobile enrolment exercise noted that in response to reports of drivers operating with expired licenses, they have increased their outreach schedule.
“We have increased on the turn up of our schedules to twice a year where we present in different regions across the country to bring services closer to the people and the delivery of the driving licenses, the time frame still stands within 12 – 48 hours picking driving Linces.” Mandela explained
Mandela reported that last week over 300 drivers—both renewals and new applicants—were registered in the Kanungu District. Today, a large number of drivers turned up on the first day in Kabale District, where the exercise will continue for a week.
MS. Catherine Nantume the communications Customer relations Manager for the UDLS Project reiterated their commitment, stating that regional offices are expected to be established soon, as the need has become evident. Nantume attributed the low turnout during the mobile enrolment exercise last week in Kanungu district to heavy rainfall and back-to-school expenses that diverted parents’ attention and finances.
She added that the goal is to bring services closer to the people to ensure that all drivers are properly licensed and roadworthy, ultimately reducing traffic accidents.
Instructor Ivan Baryahabwa of Kabale Masters driving and Auto Garage stated that training sessions have been scheduled for drivers from the region, with a strong emphasis on professionalism. He added that approximately 30 drivers enroll in training each month.
The Uganda Driver Licensing System (UDLS) is managed by the Ministry of Works and Transport, operating under the Uganda Security Printing Company (USPC) and is responsible for producing and issuing secure, computerised driving licences for all drivers in Uganda. The system aims to improve road safety by managing driver licenses and implementing a modern, integrated transport management system. Drivers can apply for licenses, add classes, verify their licenses, and access other services through the MoWT e-Services Portal.
