Kisoro, Uganda – March 10, 2025 – The Kisoro United Boda Boda Operators (KUBO) have vehemently rejected the National Boda Boda Stage Development Model (NBSDM), expressing fears that it is a veiled attempt to impose additional taxes on their members.
The NBSDM, launched by the United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union on February 5, 2025, under the auspices of Minister of Local Government Raphael Magezi, aims to foster financial independence among commercial motorcycle riders.
The initiative is intended to streamline the boda boda industry and empower riders economically through their Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO).
KUBO’s Objections:
During a meeting with the Kisoro Municipality town clerk at the Kisoro Municipal Council hall, Kalangala Robert, KUBO chairperson, asserted that the NBSDM lacks democratic principles, accountability, and transparency, and is primarily designed to levy taxes on boda boda operators.
“We are confused how the union can have a leadership committee and offices when there are no members,” Kalangala stated. “We are asking ourselves, who are the members of this union? What are its objectives, mission, and vision? We see that they are on the verge of imposing taxes on boda boda riders, and we are not ready for that, unless it is declared by the President of Uganda.”
Baker Batamukoraho, KUBO permanent secretary, echoed these sentiments, citing the adverse impact of rising motorcycle and fuel prices on riders’ daily income.
“How can you say that a boda boda rider pays UGX 1,000 for savings, which will be used to purchase expensive luxury vehicles for government workers?” Batamukoraho questioned. “We are not ready to unite with that fake union of people who want to use our membership for the benefit of a few individuals.”
KUBO executive committee members further alleged that the United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union initiative serves the personal interests of certain individuals. They also highlighted the distinction between a union, a cooperative, and an association, questioning the rationale for merging them.
Municipal Response:
Kisoro Municipal Deputy Town Clerk Moses Nkunda Nteziyaremye urged KUBO leadership to consider the NBSDM as a means to enhance service delivery in Kisoro Municipality and Uganda as a whole.
Kisubi Ayubu, Kisoro Municipality town clerk, commended KUBO for their willingness to provide statistical data and particulars of boda boda operators to the municipality, which will aid in improved planning and management.
