The Uganda Driver Licencing System has revealed that over 60% of road users drive without permits, which has greatly contributed to accidents.
This was revealed during a 14-day campaign by UDLS aimed at encouraging motorists to obtain proper licences and enhancing road safety through education and regulatory compliance.
During the third day of the mobile enrollment program at the Northern Division Headquarters in Kabale Municipality, Peterson Mandela, the mobile team supervisor for UDLS said this state of affairs is responsible for the increasing number of accidents on Ugandan roads.
He noted that it is important for drivers to acquire licences that not only authorize individuals to drive legally but also ensure they undergo essential training and evaluations, adding that this comprehensive process contributes significantly to reducing road accidents in Uganda
The UDLS officials emphasized the importance of the campaign, noting that it aligns with the Ministry of Transport and Works’ directive to extend the Uganda Driver’s Licensing System through mobile outreach programs across the country.
Mandela further noted that in these two weeks, the campaign will involve a mobile enrollment system, bringing driver’s license services closer to the people by renewing expired licenses, issuing new licenses and replacing lost driving permits.
He added that this approach aligns with the ministry’s strategy to make licensing services more accessible across different regions of the country saying that this mobile outreach program is set to cover various locations, ensuring convenience for Ugandans
ASP Francis Tadara the Regional Police Inspectorate of Vehicle for the Kigezi Sub-region hailed UDLS for the initiative to bring such driver’s license services nearer to the people in the region adding that most of the road users in the Kigezi sub-region have been driving and riding on the road without licences.
He reminded the road users that obtaining a driver’s license is not just a legal requirement but also a commitment to road safety.
He noted that the comprehensive training and checkups involved in the licensing process contribute to responsible and informed driving, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents on Ugandan roads.
Some of the road users this website spoke to noted that they have for a long period faced challenges of accessing driver’s license services due to the long distance to the existing facilities in Mbarara.
They say that the 14-day campaign will make it more feasible for many others to participate in the licensing process.
The road users further expressed appreciation for the government’s initiative.
They added that the journey to Mbarara for license services required a significant amount of time and resources thanking the government for having brought it nearer, reducing the input needed and making it much more convenient for them.
As the 14-day campaign progresses, organizers anticipate increased participation and awareness regarding the significance of obtaining a valid driver’s license with an expectation of working with more than 1500 people.
